Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Viktor Gyokeres after the Arsenal striker sustained a head injury during their Champions League match against Athletic Club. Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal this summer, was involved in a clash of heads during the first half. Despite the injury, the Arsenal manager confirmed the player’s substitution was tactical. Arsenal now prepare for a crucial Premier League match against Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta clarifies Viktor Gyokeres substitution in Champions League
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Mikel Arteta confirmed that Viktor Gyokeres was not substituted due to injury in Arsenal’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Athletic Bilbao on Tuesday night. The Swedish striker was involved in a heavy clash of heads with centre-back Gabriel in the first half at San Mamés. He required medical attention and continued playing with a bandage after sustaining a cut.
Despite playing for over an hour, the forward was withdrawn in the 65th minute for Leandro Leandro Trossard. The Belgian made an instant impact, combining with Gabriel Martinelli to break the deadlock. Leandro Trossard later sealed the win with Arsenal’s second goal.
Tactical change inspired Arsenal victory over Athletic Club
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Speaking after the match, Mikel Arteta explained that his decision to replace Viktor Gyokeres was tactical rather than medical. “It was because we wanted to change certain things,” Arteta told Viaplay. “He’s played a lot of minutes as well, and my feeling was we needed fresh legs.”
Mikel Arteta further explained the tactical rationale. “They had very clear references when we were in possession, and Leandro Leandro Trossard brings something very different, as does Gabriel Martinelli. The game was opening up, they had a really high line, and we wanted to exploit that.”
Mikel Arteta praises Viktor Gyokeres’ impact since joining Arsenal
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Mikel Arteta also praised Viktor Gyokeres’ early contributions since joining Arsenal. “Very good. Personally, he’s an exceptional character, and as a player he brings another level to what we’ve had, a lot of threat.” He also addressed concerns about the condition of both Viktor Gyokeres and Mikel Merino, who were involved in the head collision.
“I think they are good. I haven’t spoken to them but I think they’re all fine,” Mikel Arteta reassured supporters. Arsenal will now turn their attention back to the Premier League with a crucial clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. The Gunners will be hoping that Viktor Gyokeres is fully fit for the match.
Arsenal secured a vital Champions League victory, and attention now shifts to the Premier League. The fitness of key players like Viktor Gyokeres will be crucial as they face Manchester City. Mikel Arteta’s tactical decisions and player management will be under scrutiny as Arsenal aims to maintain their momentum.
Related Items:Athletic Bilbao, Athletic Club, Latest Mikel Arteta News | Transfer News | Injury News and Update, Latest Mikel Merino News | Transfer News | Injury News and Update, Manchester City, Viktor Gyokeres
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