FOOTBALL
Posted on February 27, 2026 10:30 pm | Updated on February 27, 2026 7:28 pm
Arsenal fans are excited about their new striker, Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish forward joined the club last summer and has been making waves. Now, Arsenal legend Ian Wright has shared his thoughts on what would make Gyokeres’ first season a success.
Who is Ian Wright?
Ian Wright is a former Arsenal star and one of the club’s all-time greats. Born in 1963, he played as a striker and scored 185 goals for Arsenal from 1991 to 1998. He helped win the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. After retiring, Wright became a popular pundit on TV shows like Match of the Day. His opinions carry weight among fans, especially on Arsenal matters. Wright often talks about young players and what they need to succeed.
Viktor Gyokeres’ Journey to Arsenal
In 2023, he joined Sporting CP in Portugal for €20 million. There, he exploded there. He netted 97 goals in 102 matches across two seasons. His form caught Arsenal’s eye. Last summer, Arsenal signed him for £63.5 million, making him one of their big buys. Viktor Gyokeres is known for his strength, speed, and finishing. He also represents the Sweden national team globally.
Current Performance in 2025-26 Season
This season has been a mix for Gyokeres at Arsenal. In the Premier League, he has played 26 games, scoring 10 goals with no assists. His expected goals (xG) is 8.32, showing he’s performing well. Across all competitions, he has 15 goals and 2 assists in 36 appearances. That includes 4 goals in the Champions League and 1 in the EFL Cup.
Recently, he’s picked up form. He scored a brace (two goals) in the North London Derby win over Tottenham, 4-1. This has made him Arsenal’s top scorer this year. But adapting to the Premier League’s pace and physicality from Portugal has taken time. He struggles against low-block defenses, like in the draw with Chelsea.
🚨🔴 Ian Wright is convinced that Gyokeres will be a stronger player next year, provided Arsenal can successfully secure the Premier League title this season 😳:
"He’s just somebody who I think, as long as we can finish it off (the title race), next year he will come stronger." pic.twitter.com/wq3q4xSIh8
— Goaldata – Arsenal Zone (@ArsenalZNE) February 12, 2026
The Goal Target Set by Wright
Ian Wright spoke on a podcast about Gyokeres. He said if the striker reaches 15 Premier League goals, it would be a great first season. Wright first thought 10 to 12 goals, but raised it to 15 or 16 after seeing his recent games. He wants these goals in key moments, like transitions and against tough teams.
Wright praised Gyokeres’ work rate and how he makes space for shots. He noted the brace against Tottenham showed his potential. With 10 goals already, Gyokeres needs just 5 more in the remaining 12 league games to hit 15.
Why This Target Makes Sense
The Premier League is tougher than Portugal’s league. Gyokeres scored 39 goals there last season, but England has stronger defenses. Wright knows this from experience. He thinks 15 goals would help Arsenal challenge for the title.
Ian Wright also mentioned players like Eberechi Eze helping Gyokeres shine. Good teamwork is key. If Gyokeres scores against big and small teams, it proves he’s adapted well. This target is realistic but ambitious for a new signing.
🎙Liam Rosenior on Eze and Gyökeres form….
🗣"I worked with Viktor at Brighton's Under-23s. Viktor has started to build his confidence and has shown he can score goals. Eze, I have come up against many times. We know it's going to be a very difficult game but they know it's… pic.twitter.com/ELWT35LuOc
— Arsenal Radar (@ArsenalRadar) February 27, 2026
Impact on Arsenal’s Season
Arsenal with Mikel Arteta is doing well this season, leading the league. Gyokeres’ goals have been vital in wins over top sides. His presence gives options up front, especially with injuries to others like Mikel Merino. If he hits Wright’s target, it could push Arsenal to trophies in the Premier League or Champions League.
Conclusion
Ian Wright’s target of 15 goals for Viktor Gyokeres is a fair benchmark for success. With 10 already, he’s on track. This shows Arsenal’s smart signing. As the season goes on, watch Gyokeres chase this goal. It could be the start of something special at the Emirates.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Add as a preferred source on Google
Mentioned in this Article
Recommended for you