Media react to Gyökeres’ home Arsenal debut | OneFootball

Viktor Gyökeres arrived to thunderous applause at the Emirates, his name drawing the loudest cheer before kick-off.

But after 60 minutes in his home debut against Villarreal, the media verdict was largely unanimous: promising in moments, but ultimately a subdued introduction.

Daily Mail back page, 7 August 2025

Sky Sports labelled the Swedish international the “talk of the Emirates Stadium before the game”, yet noted a “minor anti-climax” once the football began. With just 14 touches and two shots, one blocked and one saved, his influence was limited.

However, analysts praised his movement, particularly into the left channel, and his willingness to attack space.

BBC Sport reflected the crowd’s anticipation, observing that each time the ball approached the Swede, there was a sense of hope, even as clear-cut chances failed to materialise. They, too, pointed to the importance of match fitness and integration into the side’s patterns of play.

The Telegraph described the evening as one of “firsts”, but highlighted Arsenal’s “sloppy” display and the lack of service to Gyökeres.

It noted brief flashes of connection with Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, but also growing concern among pundits that Arsenal’s attacking patterns will need adjusting to accommodate a true No.9.

Daily Telegraph, 7 August 2025

That tactical issue surfaced across several outlets, including Sport Bible and The Standard, which handed Gyökeres a 6 out of 10 rating and remarked on his isolation. Multiple commentators pointed to occasions when teammates failed to release the ball during his runs in behind.

Some placed the blame on Arteta’s structure for limiting central service, but the midfield that played behind him will not be the one that starts at Old Trafford.

While fans had hoped for a debut goal, the prevailing media consensus was more measured. This was Gyökeres in early August, not mid-season rhythm. His strength, movement, and presence were apparent, even if they were not yet matched by end product as he finds his place.

Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Mikel Arteta, speaking after the 3-2 defeat, said, “He hasn’t trained with a team for two months, so he’s done now six or five sessions I think before today, so I think on Saturday again he will take another step and he will be in a better condition.” He added that Gyökeres “will be 100% ready” for the Premier League opener against Manchester United.

The expectation now is that Gyökeres will grow into his role quickly as his fitness improves and teammates learn to read his movements.

The finishing issues Arsenal have faced in recent seasons are well-documented. Gyökeres, signed as the solution, remains under scrutiny at a level he wouldn’t face at most other clubs, with many in the media keen to brand him a flop before he’s even had a chance to get going.

Hopefully, he won’t give them the chance.