Mikel Arteta was very happy after Arsenal won 3-1 against Inter Milan in the Champions League. One big reason for his smile was Viktor Gyokeres. The striker has faced some tough words from fans in recent weeks. But Viktor Gyokeres answered his critics in the best way — by scoring an important goal. Mikel Arteta said Gyokeres brings “something very special” to the team and showed why he still trusts him.
🗣️Mikel Arteta when asked about #Arsenal man Viktor Gyokeres lack of goals ahead of the Inter game: “I think it goes for all the number nines in the Premier League and how difficult it is to play in that position nowadays, with the physicality and the dominance of the… pic.twitter.com/Xf3lSxtful
— Arsenal News Channel (@Arsenalnewschan) January 19, 2026
Mikel Arteta Explains Why Viktor Gyokeres Is Important
Before the match, Mikel Arteta made a big decision. He started Gabriel Jesus instead of Viktor Gyokeres. Some fans were surprised, but the plan worked well. Jesus scored two goals and played with great energy. Arsenal led at half-time after also scoring through Petar Sucic.
In the second half, the game was still close. Inter tried hard to score, and Arsenal needed calm players. Late in the match, Mikel Arteta brought Viktor Gyokeres on from the bench. This moment changed everything.
In the 84th minute, Viktor Gyokeres scored with a powerful first-time shot. The goal made it 3-1 and ended Inter’s hopes. After the game, Mikel Arteta praised Gyokeres and said he helped the team a lot. He said the striker was ready for the moment and took his chance well.
Viktor Gyokeres Answers Critics as Mikel Arteta Shows Trust
Viktor Gyokeres has had a hard time recently. In the last few matches, he did not score and looked tired. Some fans started to doubt him. But Mikel Arteta never stopped believing.
After the match, Mikel Arteta said Viktor Gyokeres is finding better form again. He said the striker has now played well in two away games in a row. Arteta also said the goal was very important for Gyokeres’ confidence.
The manager explained that Gyokeres brings strength, power, and smart movement. He said not many players can score goals like that in big stadiums such as the San Siro. For a young team like Arsenal, having players who can handle pressure is very important.
Strong Team Performance in a Big Stadium
Arsenal’s win was not just about one player. The whole team played with courage and belief. Mikel Arteta said the players were brave and ready to fight. He was proud of how they played away from home against one of the best teams in Europe.
Gabriel Jesus also received special praise. Arteta called him an “unbelievable player”. He said Jesus feels calm in big matches and always works hard for the team. Jesus was named man of the match because of his goals and effort.
Changing opinions of Critics
Many fans shared positive messages online. They praised Mikel Arteta for trusting his players and staying calm under pressure.
Fans were especially happy for Viktor Gyokeres. After his goal, many said he proved his critics wrong. Some fans wrote that the goal will help his confidence grow. Others said Gyokeres showed great character by scoring in such a big game.
Supporters also praised Gabriel Jesus for his two goals and hard work. Many fans said Arsenal look stronger and more united as a team.
Importance of this win for Arsenal
The victory means Arsenal are now six points clear at the top of their Champions League group. They have won seven games in a row and are full of confidence. This win also gives Mikel Arteta a good problem.
Now he must choose between Gabriel Jesus, Viktor Gyokeres, and Kai Havertz for the next match against Manchester United. All three players want to start. Jesus said he respects Arteta’s decision and is happy when his teammates score.
Author’s Insight
In conclusion, this match showed why Mikel Arteta believes in Viktor Gyokeres. Viktor showed patience, took his chance, and proved his value. With strong teamwork and rising confidence, Arsenal look like a flexible team, or dream team, that can cope with tougher situations now.
As featured on GoonerNews.com