Gyokeres blow before Prague clash confirms Arteta. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that striker Viktor Gyokeres will be absent in the vital Champions League game against Slavia Prague which is a huge blow after he suffered a muscular injury.
The Sudden Setback
The announcement presents a spanner into the plans of the Gunners as they make their way through a hectic schedule. Moreover, Arteta delivered the news with understandable concern. It was a surprise on how the problem was revealed. The Swedish international played a vital part in the attack of the Arsenal. However, complained of discomfort and this led to instant medical attention.
🚨🚨BREAKING: According to HOA, Viktor Gyokeres will be expected to make an appearance against Totenham when he's fully fit.
✅️❌️The Injury is not "serious" though a but worrying pic.twitter.com/hrYTwnQNss
— Arsenal Extra (@Afcextra_) November 4, 2025
Arteta’s Concern Over Unfamiliar Issue
Arteta said that he was feeling something, highlighting the uncertainty of the situation. The manager also made an extra concerning observation regarding the situation in the long run. He has pondered that Gyokeres has not really had to worry about the muscular problem in previous iterations at all. In addition, the club will be hyper diligent to ensure that things do not get to where nobody wants them to be.
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta admits he is concerned about Viktor Gyokeres' recent injury and he doesn't know what time frame the Swedish striker could return in.
Could an injury crisis derail Arsenal again? 🔴 pic.twitter.com/DioZGOD9hl
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) November 4, 2025
Tactical Reshuffle Required
This is an incredibly unfortunate time for Arsenal in all aspects, particularly with their tactical flexibility and goaling ability. Gyokeres has been absolutely paramount in his ability to be opportunistic, and physical, and use his athleticism to make penetrative runs to break down and defend against disciplined defenses with a singular goal in mind; and that is to score. His absence will lead to a shifting of the forward thinking dynamic, and any goals will be left to the other attacking options on the team.
A Concern for the Title Charge
The short term goal will be how to stay afloat in the European tie without their main striker. However, the bigger picture will be how long will his layoff last. As they head into a vital North London derby with Tottenham with the premier league title match intensifying, Arsenal will be praying that this is a simple case of the bumps on the road and not a long layoff.
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