At a Glance:
William Saliba reacts to Viktor Gyokeres’ display as Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid.
Gyokeres earned praise from Wayne Rooney.
Saliba’s wish for Gyokeres.
Viktor Gyokeres had one of the best nights of his career as the Swede starred in Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League semi-final.
Wayne Rooney lauded Gyokeres for his incredible physicality during the clash as he put in a tireless display while leading the line at the Emirates Stadium.
The 27-year-old stood out for the Gunners against Fulham as well, scoring a brace and assisting Bukayo Saka’s goal; signaling that he is in a rich vein of form.
William Saliba, who impressed against Atletico Madrid was quizzed about the striker’s display after the contest.
William Saliba praises Viktor Gyokeres after Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid
Saliba was full of praise for Gyokeres while speaking to beIN SPORTS about his showing in Arsenal’s all-important triumph against Atletico Madrid.
The Frenchman said: “Yeah, he played so well. No doubt, we have a big player up front. Gyokeres played so well.”
Saliba went on to admit that he hopes Gyokeres scores and creates goals in Arsenal’s final four games of the campaign.
🗣️ "We have three games in the Premier League and the final, so we have four finals – we want to win all of them and I'm sure that we can do it!"
William Saliba's reaction to reaching the #UCL final#beINUCL #Arsenal #UCL pic.twitter.com/ShwJkw287j
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) May 5, 2026
“As well in the last game [against Fulham]. So, [I’m] so happy for him and I hope in the last four games, he scores again and gets some assists but I’m so happy with his performance today.”
Viktor Gyokeres could go down as an Arsenal legend
As things stand, the jury still seems out on Gyokeres.
However, it is important to remember that none of Arsenal’s legendary strikers such as Thierry Henry, Ian Wright and Robin van Persie to name a few have helped the team win the Premier League and the Champions League in the same season.
If Gyokeres delivers on Saliba’s plea after Arsenal’s victory against Atletico Madrid by stepping up to the plate and leading his team to glory in both competitions, he could become a club legend instantly.
Srinivas Sadhanand
Srinivas Sadhanand is a writer for Read Arsenal and Read Man City, with over eight years of experience as a sports journalist. He has worked for established companies such as GRV Media, The Economic Times, Urban Pitch and Sportskeeda among several others. From interview athletes to writing detailed tactical pieces and covering the impact streetwear and music in football, he has many strings to his bow as a journalist. Being a lifelong Manchester City fan, he specialises in writing about them and the Premier League in particular. Away from the desk, he loves watching European football, cricket, films, listening to music and exploring new foods.
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