FOOTBALL
By Piyush Wankhede
Posted on April 29, 2026 1:00 am | Updated on April 28, 2026 7:23 pm
Arsenal
ARSENAL
Arsenal is one of England’s most prestigious football clubs, competing in the Premier League and European competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Known for its attacking style, rich history, and passionate fanbase, Arsenal has won numerous league titles and domestic… Read More about ARSENAL
Paul Merson requests Mikel Arteta to start Viktor Gyokeres against Atletico Madrid. This comes as a result of his hold up skills and physical strength across the football pitch.
As per reports, Paul Merson comes out in public with his opinions related to Viktor Gyokeres. In this case, the former Arsenal player who is now a football pundit argues a case for Gyokeres. He feels that Viktor Gyokeres should start the game for Arsenal against Atletico Madrid. Their clash is expected to be an intense encounter. Thus, a player of Gyokeres’ hold up, physical presence and finishing skills might shape the out come of this match.
In this case, Paul Merson says, “For me, he plays in Europe on Wednesday night because he will hold the ball up. Arsenal will be under pressure…That’s when you need Gyokeres to get you a throw in down the touchline…he runs after lost causes.” Thus, his comments reveals how Arsenal will be under pressure in that game. Therefore, a player like him will bring the hunger, strength and mentality to work hard on the football pitch.
Also, Arsenal will be playing an away game. In this case, it is expected that they might depend on low block. Thus, keeping their shape solid and tucked in. A game like this requires a disciplined approach from the players. Small moments can create big differences, it is like fighting for a drop of water till you find an ocean.
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Viktor Gyokeres’ numbers
For Sporting CP, he scored 52 goals and created 13 assists in 54 appearances for the club. As a result, these numbers led his transfer from Sporting to Arsenal.
Season 2025/26:
Premier League: 12 goals in 32 appearances
UEFA Champions League: 4 goals and 1 assist in 10 appearances
Carabao Cup: 1 goal and 1 assist in 4 appearances
FA Cup: 1 goal in 2 appearances
Therefore, scoring 18 goals and 2 assists in 48 appearances for Arsenal this season.
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What does it mean for Arsenal?
Arsenal are now standing at a very crucial part of the season. At this stage every point matters, every small difference shapes outcomes of the games. This moment will define how they end their season. They had started this season with high hopes as their wins grew across competitions. As a result, the expectations from fans remain high.
However, they face an injury crisis and attacking problems on the pitch. Names such as Bukayo Saka have been side lined from action. Also, they fail to capitalise the chances that results in bad outcomes in games. As a result, they have been knocked out of the Domestic cups. Meanwhile, they remain on top of the Premier League table with Manchester City edging closer to the top. Therefore, the importance of result in the UEFA Champions League becomes even bigger.
The match against Atletico Madrid is a UEFA Champions League semi final clash. In this case, they would not want any mistakes costing them the game. Thus, suitability to their plans comes in talks. In this case, Viktor Gyokeres might be the key that wins this game for the Gunners. He has faced some issues over his form. However, there are no doubts about what he can bring to the team, this is what Merson also points at.
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Author’s Opinion
Paul Merson feels that Viktor Gyokeres should be starting against Atletico Madrid. This comes as talks grow around the approach Arsenal might have to win the game. Merson feels that Gyokeres might shape the result because of his physical strength and finishing skills. Therefore it will be interesting to see, will Viktor Gyokeres start for Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League semi final?
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Piyush Wankhede
Piyush Wankhede is a Junior Football Writer at Six Sports, contributing articles focused on football news, match developments, and player performances. As an emerging voice in football journalism, he provides clear and engaging coverage that helps readers stay updated on key events and stories in the sport. Through his work at Six Sports, Piyush delivers concise match reports, player analyses, and feature pieces that highlight trends and narratives shaping modern football. His writing combines attention to detail with accessibility, making it easy for readers to follow football developments.
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