Graham Potter has confirmed his first Sweden squad for the upcoming November internationals, and Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres isn’t part of it.
SOLNA, SWEDEN: Viktor Gyoekeres of Sweden looks dejected following Johan Manzambi (not pictured) of Switzerland scores his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Sweden and Switzerland at Strawberry Arena on October 10, 2025. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images
Sweden have officially confirmed the first squad of Graham Potter’s spell in charge, and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres isn’t included on the list.
Gyokeres picked up an injury during the Gunners’ game against Burnley at the weekend, with reports suggesting he’d be out until after the international break. Sweden’s lack of a call-up seemingly confirms that timeline.
There is at least some hope that the striker won’t miss too many club games, with James McNicholas reporting for The Athletic this week that Arsenal are hoping to have Gyokeres back for the north London derby on November 23rd. But that will depend on the results of further assessments.
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 21: Viktor Gyoekeres of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Arsenal FC and Atletico de Madrid at Arsenal Stadium on October 21, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Though Gyokeres’ absence is a blow for Sweden, the team didn’t have a huge amount to play for to begin with.
Sweden would need to win both of their remaining qualifiers and see Kosovo fail to pick up a single point just to have a chance at finishing in the runner-up spot to make the qualification play-offs.
But that would essentially change nothing, as Sweden are already likely to make the play-offs as a result of their Nations League performance.
So even in the very unlikely scenario that every November international result goes their way, Sweden’s chances of making the World Cup would be roughly the same as they are now.
SOLNA, SWEDEN: Viktor Gyoekeres of Sweden battles for possession with Remo Freuler of Switzerland during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Sweden and Switzerland at Strawberry Arena on October 10, 2025. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images
The primary downside of Gyokeres missing out is that these are the only games Sweden will play before those vital qualification play-offs in March.
This should have been a chance for the striker to settle in under a new manager, but instead he’ll go into the March break without an adaptation period.
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