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Arsenal have made an impressive beginning to the campaign, securing victories in eight from their first ten matches, but it's been less as easy for recent striker Viktor Gyokeres.

After three scores in his initial 4 matches, this expensive acquisition hasn't found the net in six matches, with manager the Spanish tactician saying he gave the Sweden forward a hug after Saturday's 2-0 victory against West Ham in recognition of his hard work.

Game Minutes and Squad Factors

Gyokeres has featured for full matches across six from Arsenal's opening ten matches - beyond Arteta initially intended him to play, due to the knee injury to Kai Havertz restricting the capacity Arteta possesses to rotate the Swedish international.

Havertz represents one of the manager's most reliable squad members and exists an argument to be had suggesting the German would have been selected instead of the Swedish striker in important road matches against the Reds - the Gunners' sole loss this season - the Magpies plus the Red Devils, which they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the reality the striker didn't undergo a full summer preparation before joining, and missed squad training with his former club when he looked to force through a move toward north London.

Scoring Record & Expectations

However the Swedish international is a win-now addition, that notched ninety-seven goals in one hundred two games with Sporting in his two seasons at the Portuguese club.

His lack of goals aren't a problem as Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he represents an athlete who was brought to the club to help the team across the finish line as they attempt to secure their first trophy after two thousand twenty.

Manager's Viewpoint & Team Integration

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition of Gyokeres' effort in the opening matches while heaped praise upon the striker for his contributions which often goes unnoticed whenever the chance has presented itself.

Following the Gunners' win over Olympiacos, he described the forward's performance "exceptional" while praised the player's "work-rate".

At the time the club acquired Gyokeres, existed a belief his presence would open up opportunities for the various offensive players the team have supporting him in the Norwegian captain, the English winger, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this season to move possession between the lines faster and have adjusted their strategy to become more vertical.

This is partially to get the best out of the Swedish striker, who doesn't attempt to drop into midfield to connect passes similar to the German, rather his primary attribute is considered to be making runs through the two defenders and into the space behind them.

When watching the Gunners currently, one can notice the central players are attempting for passes that could free Gyokeres for a chance.

This is demonstrated by the twenty-three opportunities Gyokeres has received, however he has merely mustered seven attempts on goal from those opportunities across 10 games, including one being from a spot-kick.

Strategic Changes & Team Backing

Arsenal struggled to break down sides employing low block last season as they faded in the championship pursuit, so their new approach aims to damage the opposition while maintaining tempo.

The team are also crossing the ball more regularly to generate additional opportunities.

One of the striker's three goals this season originated from the penalty spot but that was when Saka had already been replaced in the five-nil victory over United.

Arteta stated Gyokeres represents the best penalty taker in the squad during a discussion for the sports network, but the duty fell to Saka who took the spot-kick during the victory over West Ham while both were on the field, implying the England winger might be first choice to take them this term.

Teammate Support and Confidence

The Arsenal winger, who completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance for Arsenal in the win on Saturday, has backed the Swedish striker to succeed.

"In my opinion Gyokeres' playing extremely well," Saka stated post-game against West Ham.

"There's no doubt he's going to find the net. The contributions he's bringing to the squad, we as his team-mates, we're so appreciative of what he delivers - how he retains possession, the way he makes movements, the danger he provides the team.

"He represents a significant component why we're securing victories in these games. His goals will come. We know that, we're confident while we believe in his abilities. I don't believe there are doubts. He remains positive, he continues to be happy and he's consistently giving his best each match."

Upcoming Outlook for The Striker

It's reasonable to say it hasn't proven the easiest beginning for the Swedish international, however that does not mean there aren't signs suggesting situations will become improved.

The striker started the campaign attempting to recover regarding his conditioning following a disrupted summer preparation.

Havertz's injury has meant he has been placed into circumstances earlier compared to possibly planned - it has also meant the connections with creative players behind him that have not fully developed have been highlighted.

Gyokeres is a willing runner and constantly seeks out {space|g