This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney believes the signing of Viktor Gyokeres is a “major reason” why Arsenal could win both the Premier League and the Champions League this season.
Most Read on Gooner News
The Swedish international has often been pilloried for his poor technical ability, but Rooney says the striker deserves a lot more recognition for the work he does off the ball:
“I’ve said this all season, and I have been criticised for saying it, but I actually really like him. What he brings to that Arsenal team is that he occupies defenders. He makes them work, he makes them defend, he runs the channels.”
“And what we’ve seen recently is that it’s creating more space for Eberechi Eze and for Bukayo Saka – because if one, or both centre-backs have to go and cover him and then the full-back has to cover round, when you switch the ball quickly, it creates so much space for everyone just in behind him.”
“Over the last few weeks, he has been showing that even more and if Arsenal go on to win the league and the Champions League, he’ll be a major reason behind it, because that’s where Arsenal have been short in the last few years.”
Rooney recognises what the Arsenal forward brings to the table
Gyokeres is by no means easy on the eye. He often looks cumbersome and clumsy in possession, and his hold-up play can leave a lot to be desired for a no.9.
However, Rooney is correct to highlight his movement. He often makes runs in behind that test centre-backs, and while it doesn’t always pay dividends, it does allow his teammates more space and time on the ball.
Buy Arsenal tickets from StubHub here
Gyokeres is (finally) beginning to win over the doubters
It is fair to say that the 27-year-old has taken his time to get going in an Arsenal shirt. The first few months (in particular) were a tough watch, and he has only really come into his own since the New Year.
Many still feel that Gyokeres is not the long-term solution up front, but you can’t question his numbers, having scored 21 goals in all competitions this campaign.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here