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Arsenal have enjoyed a strong start this campaign, securing victories in eight from their first ten matches, but it has not been as straightforward for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following 3 scores in his first four games, the expensive acquisition has not scored for six consecutive games, with manager Mikel Arteta revealing he gave the Sweden striker a hug after Saturday's 2-0 victory against the Hammers for his efforts.

Playing Minutes & Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has featured for full matches across six from Arsenal's first ten games - beyond Arteta planned him to play, due to the knee injury to the German midfielder limiting the capacity the manager has to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz is one of the manager's most trusted players while there is an argument to be made that Havertz would have started in place of Gyokeres in important away matches versus Liverpool - the Gunners' sole defeat this season - Newcastle United plus Manchester United, games that they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the reality the striker didn't have complete summer preparation before joining, and missed team sessions with his former club when he looked to force through a move to north London.

Scoring Record & Expectations

But the Swedish international represents a immediate impact addition, who scored 97 goals in one hundred two games for Sporting during his two seasons at the Lisbon-based team.

The striker's drought in goals aren't an issue as Arsenal are securing victories currently, yet he is a player that was brought to the club to get the squad across the finish line as they try to win their initial trophy since 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint and Team Adaptation

Arteta has demonstrated an appreciation of Gyokeres' effort during the initial matches and heaped compliments on the striker regarding his work which often goes unnoticed whenever the chance has arisen to do so.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's win against Olympiacos, he called the striker's performance "outstanding" and commended the player's "work-rate".

At the time the club acquired the Swedish international, existed an expectation his inclusion would open up opportunities for the multiple offensive talents the team have behind him in the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, the creative midfielder and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Analysis

Arsenal have altered their style this season to get the ball between the lines faster and have adapted their strategy to become more vertical.

This represents partially to extract the maximum out of Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drop into midfield to link play similar to Havertz, but whose strength is felt as making runs between both defenders toward the space behind them.

When watching the Gunners this season, it can be seen the midfielders are attempting to find the ball that could release Gyokeres for a chance.

This is demonstrated in the 23 chances the forward has had, however he has only mustered seven attempts on goal with those chances in 10 games, including one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Adjustments & Team Backing

Arsenal struggled to break down opponents in a low block last season as they faded in the championship pursuit, so their new approach is designed to hurt opponents while playing quickly.

The team are likewise delivering crosses more regularly more regularly to create additional opportunities.

One of Gyokeres' three goals so far came from a spot-kick however this occurred when Saka was already been replaced during the 5-0 win against Leeds.

The manager stated Gyokeres is the best penalty taker in the squad in an interview with ESPN Brazil, yet the duty fell to Saka who assumed the spot-kick in the win over West Ham when both were on the field, implying the English winger could be first choice for penalties this term.

Teammate Support and Belief

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

"In my opinion Viktor's playing extremely well," Saka said post-game against West Ham.

"There's no doubt he will find the net. What he's providing to this team, we as his colleagues, we are extremely grateful for what he does - how he retains possession, the way he makes the runs, the danger he gives the team.

"He's a big part of the reason we're securing victories in these games. His scoring will come. We're aware, we believe that while we have faith in his abilities. I don't believe there's any concerns. He remains up, he's still content and he's consistently giving maximum effort every game."

Future Outlook for The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, but this doesn't imply there aren't indicators to show situations will become improved.

The striker began the season playing to recover with his conditioning after an interrupted summer preparation.

The German's injury has meant him being thrust into circumstances earlier than perhaps planned - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders behind him that have not quite clicked are being emphasized.

Gyokeres represents a eager movement maker while consistently looks for {space|g