Analyzing Gyokeres' Arsenal Opening: 10 Matches, Three Scores

Arsenal are experiencing a remarkable start to the season, winning eight of their first ten matches, however it hasn't proven quite as easy for new striker the Swedish attacker.
After 3 scores in his initial 4 games, the £64m acquisition has not scored in six consecutive games, as manager Mikel Arteta saying he offered the Sweden striker a hug after the weekend's 2-0 victory over West Ham in recognition of his efforts.
Playing Time & Team Dynamics
Gyokeres has played full matches in six from Arsenal's opening 10 matches - more than the manager planned him to play, with the fitness issue affecting Kai Havertz limiting the ability Arteta possesses to rest the 27-year-old.
The German player represents one of Arteta's most reliable squad members while exists a case to be had that the German would have been selected in place of the Swedish striker during big away fixtures against Liverpool - the Gunners' sole defeat of the campaign - the Magpies and Manchester United, which they emerged victorious from.
There is also the reality Gyokeres did not undergo complete summer preparation before arriving, and skipped team sessions at Sporting when he looked to secure a move toward Arsenal.
Goal-Scoring Record and Expectations
But the Swedish international is a win-now signing, who notched 97 goals in one hundred two games with his previous club during his two campaigns at the Lisbon-based club.
The striker's drought in scoring are not an issue since the team are winning currently, yet he is a player who was brought to the club to help the squad over the line while they try to win their first trophy since two thousand twenty.
Coach's Viewpoint & Team Integration
Arteta has shown an appreciation of the striker's work rate in the opening games while heaped praise on the striker for his work which can go unnoticed when the chance has presented itself.
In the aftermath of Arsenal's win against the Greek side, he described the striker's performance "exceptional" and commended his "effort level".
At the time the club acquired the Swedish international, existed an expectation his presence would create opportunities for the various offensive talents Arsenal have supporting him including Martin Odegaard, the English winger, the creative midfielder and the Brazilian forward.
Numerical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to get the ball through midfield more quickly and have adjusted their tactics to be more direct.
This represents in part to get the maximum out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drop deeper and connect passes like the German, rather whose primary attribute is felt to be running through both centre-backs and into the space in behind.
Observing Arsenal this season, it can be seen the central players are attempting for passes that could free the striker for opportunities.
This is shown by the 23 chances the forward has had, however he has merely mustered 7 shots on target from those opportunities in 10 games, including one coming via the penalty spot.
Tactical Adjustments & Team Backing
Arsenal struggled to penetrate opponents employing defensive setup last season as they faded during the title race, so their new approach is designed to damage the opposition by playing quickly.
Arsenal are also delivering crosses the ball with increased frequency to create additional opportunities.
One of the striker's 3 goals this season came from the penalty spot but that was at a time Saka was already been substituted in the 5-0 victory against Leeds.
Arteta said the Swedish striker represents the top penalty taker in the squad during a discussion with the sports network, but the duty fell to Saka who assumed the spot-kick in the victory against the Hammers when both were present on the field, suggesting the English attacker could be the primary option to take them this term.
Teammate Encouragement & Confidence
The Arsenal winger, that completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance with the Gunners in the victory on Saturday, has backed Gyokeres to succeed.
"In my opinion Gyokeres' performing extremely well," Saka stated post-game with the Hammers.
"Without question he will find the net. The contributions he's providing to the squad, us as his team-mates, we're so appreciative for what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, the way he makes movements, the threat he provides us.
"He represents a significant component why we're winning these games. His scoring will arrive. We're aware, we believe that and we have faith in him. I don't believe there are concerns. He's still positive, he's still happy while he's consistently providing his best each match."
Upcoming Prospects for Gyokeres
It is fair to say it hasn't proven the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, but this doesn't imply there aren't signs to show things will get better.
Gyokeres began the season playing catch-up regarding his fitness after an interrupted pre-season.
The German's injury has meant him being thrust into situations earlier compared to perhaps anticipated - this has also caused the relationships with midfielders behind him which haven't fully developed are being emphasized.
The striker is a eager movement maker while consistently seeks out {space|g