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Ex-PL star surprised by Arsenal’s decision to sign Gyokeres

By on September 18, 2025

viktor gyokeres arsenal

Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has been left ‘surprised’ by Arsenal’s decision to sign Viktor Gyokeres.

Gabriel Jesus has continued to struggle with fitness issues in recent years, while Kai Havertz has also experienced numerous injury problems in recent months. So, the Gunners decided to reinforce the centre-forward position by purchasing the Swedish international in the recently concluded summer window.

The 27-year-old was the highest-scoring striker in Europe over the last two seasons, so it wasn’t surprising to see that Arsenal decided to buy him.

However, former Man Utd striker Saha doesn’t share that view, as during a recent interview (via Metro), the Frenchman has said that he is ‘surprised’ that Mikel Arteta’s side have opted to go for Gyokeres.

The reason behind his claim is that previously, they signed Jesus, who is capable of creating opportunities on his own. However, Gyokeres isn’t a skillful player and is more of a direct forward, but Arsenal aren’t well known for playing to his strengths.

Nevertheless, Saha also says that Gyokeres knows how to score goals and can help the North London club achieve their lofty ambitions. But, he might take time to settle down with the physicality of the Premier League.

Ex-PL star questions Arsenal’s decision to sign Gyokeres

Saha said:

“For Viktor Gyokeres, it will take time [to settle at Arsenal]. I’m surprised in some way – because he is definitely not a skilful player. Arsenal [previously] went to Gabriel Jesus, who was able to [create his own chances] a bit, then Arsenal almost played with no strikers.

“But Gyokeres is definitely a striker [who] can definitely score goals. He has a direct profile that Arsenal are not well known for. It can work. You can see that Arsenal have not played as good football as we know them, that’s probably the way Mikel Arteta wants to play.”

Gyokeres has already scored three goals in four league appearances. He is currently the second-highest scorer in the English top flight, sitting just behind Erling Haaland.

The former Sporting CP, valued at around £65m by Transfermarkt, is an experienced player, and Arsenal need players like him to achieve their lofty ambitions. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether Gyokeres can eventually manage to guide the North London club to win the Premier League or the Champions League this season.