Viktor Gyökeres is no stranger to adapting, but even he admits that working under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP felt like a perfect match.
In an interview with France Football, the Swedish striker credited Amorim’s tactical setup for bringing the best out of him during a record-breaking campaign that has since put him firmly on the radar of several top clubs, including Arsenal.
“The style of play we had under him suited me perfectly,” Gyökeres said, a nod to the fluid, aggressive system that allowed him to operate freely across the final third. It’s no coincidence that his first season in Portugal produced 39 goals in all competitions, making him Liga Portugal’s top scorer and arguably the league’s most complete forward.
That success translated into silverware too. Under Amorim, Sporting CP ended a 71-year wait by winning back-to-back league titles—first in the 2022–23 season, and again in 2023–24, with Gyökeres netting a league-best 29 goals in the latter campaign. It was the type of season that redefined expectations for both player and club.
“We won two championships in a row for the first time in 71 years,” he said. “It’s an incredible achievement and, of course, Ruben Amorim played a big part in that. I can’t thank him enough.”
The mutual admiration between player and coach makes Amorim’s midseason departure to Manchester United all the more striking. Gyökeres, like many, didn’t see it coming.
“It was a shock,” he admitted. “I’d never seen a coach leave in the middle of the season when everything was going so well. No hard feelings. Yes, it was surprising, but I totally understand his decision.”
At 27, Gyökeres appears poised for his next challenge, and the Premier League is widely expected to be his destination. Arsenal remain heavily linked, with Mikel Arteta reportedly viewing the striker as an ideal addition to lead the line. While Sporting would be reluctant sellers, they know they may not be able to hold onto a player whose form has made him one of the hottest properties in Europe.
Gyökeres leaves little doubt about the role Amorim played in shaping his current form. With his game now reaching its peak, the timing may be right for a Premier League leap—one built on tactical understanding, individual brilliance, and a system that finally gave him the freedom to flourish.
