Viktor Gyokeres
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has hit back at criticism from club legend Freddie Ljungberg, who voiced disappointment with Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup following the Gunners’ 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.
Ljungberg, part of Arsenal’s iconic 2003-04 Invincibles side, described the performance as “sad” to watch, arguing that the team lacked attacking ambition and played too cautiously.
“When I see a little bit of what I’ve seen today with Arsenal, to just minimise risk all the time, taking a lot of time on, for example, free-kicks… that is a little bit sad to see. I would like them to try a bit more,” he said after Dominik Szoboszlai’s 83rd-minute free-kick sealed victory for the champions.
Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting CP in a £63.5 million summer move, defended his side while on international duty with Sweden. “It’s easy [to criticise] if you’re not on the pitch to say what you think and feel about a match,” he told Aftonbladet.
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“We did well defensively, and they didn’t get many chances. Then we would have liked to do even better offensively. It’s not easy to do every aspect perfectly every match.”
Arsenal - Freddie Ljungberg
Freddie Ljungberg (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal managed just one shot on target in the loss, a statistic that fueled frustration among fans and pundits. Even so, the 27-year-old striker insisted the team is on the right track. “The matches we’ve played so far have felt good, you can always do things better. We just have to continue on the same path,” he said.
Arteta, who has been adjusting his system to make the most of Gyokeres’ strengths, also defended his new signing. “It’s clear where Viktor is really dangerous, what his superpower is,” the manager said after the Swede netted twice in a 5-0 win over Leeds United. “Let’s put him as much as possible in those kinds of scenarios because something will happen.”
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Gyokeres’ arrival was meant to address Arsenal’s long-standing need for a traditional No. 9, with the striker scoring 97 goals in 102 games for Sporting before moving to London. However, some former players, including Emmanuel Petit, have questioned whether Arsenal’s possession-based style can unlock his full potential.
“Perhaps they need to get back to the fast-paced, counter-attacking style they practiced two years ago to get the most out of him,” Petit suggested.
Despite the Anfield setback, Arsenal’s early-season form remains promising, with notable wins over Manchester United and Leeds. Gyokeres’ strong start, including a brace against Leeds, has already highlighted his ability to be a decisive figure.
Arteta remains optimistic, praising his striker’s adaptability and work rate: “His work rate, he’s managed to play the full match as well, so that’s another level as well for him.”
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