Questions have shadowed Viktor Gyokeres since his arrival at Arsenal, despite a £64 million transfer from Sporting and six goals to his name. Doubts linger regarding his technical finesse and impact during crucial matches, fueling a debate about his true potential within the team.
Unexpectedly, Mikel Merino has emerged as a strong contender for the starting striker role. Stepping up during injuries to Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, Merino has delivered an impressive performance with four goals and three assists in just seven games.
Despite Gyokeres receiving a start in the recent narrow victory against Wolves, some believe Merino’s current form warrants consistent selection. The conversation centers on whether Gyokeres possesses the qualities to truly elevate Arsenal to the highest echelons of European football.
Before joining Arsenal, whispers circulated questioning whether Gyokeres was equipped for a top European club. Early performances suggest those concerns weren’t entirely unfounded, prompting a reevaluation of his place in the squad.
The assessment isn’t a dismissal of Gyokeres’ goal-scoring ability, but a consideration of the complete package a center-forward should offer. Gabriel Jesus, when fully fit, is considered by some to be a more well-rounded player, possessing a broader skillset.
Merino’s adaptability, often playing as a ‘false nine,’ has proven invaluable. Coupled with Kai Havertz’s similar versatility, Arsenal now boasts a diverse attacking front line capable of varying their approach.
The prevailing view suggests Arsenal may need contributions from all four forwards – Gyokeres, Jesus, Havertz, and Merino – to sustain a title challenge. None currently embody the profile of a definitive, world-class striker, but their collective strengths could prove decisive.
The team’s success may hinge on leveraging the unique attributes of each player, creating a dynamic attacking force rather than relying on a single star. This blend of goalscorers and adaptable forwards presents a compelling tactical option for Mikel Arteta.
