‎Viktor Gyokeres makes clear stance over No. 2 role at Arsenal 

Viktor Gyokeres has broken silence regarding his role at Arsenal as the Swedish forward continue to play second fiddle to Kai Havertz.

‎The 28-year-old has found himself relegated to a substitute role this season, making just two Premier League appearances off the bench.

‎Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has opted for Kai Havertz as his preferred option to lead the line for the Premier League champions.

‎Gyokeres’ demotion follows a mixed debut campaign after his 2025 arrival from Sporting.

‎The Sweden international was benched for the Champions League final in May and is yet to find the net for his club in the current campaign.

‎Gyokeres latest situation has seen speculation mount over his future. Various report claim he could exit the club in 2027.

‎However, Speaking while on international duty with Sweden, Gyokeres moved to quash any suggestions of an imminent transfer. The striker maintained that leaving the Emirates Stadium was never on his agenda during the recent window.

Viktor Gyokeres celebrates scoring for Sweden during the UEFA Nations League Group B4 match against Poland. (Photo by Fredrik SANDBERG / various sources / AFP via Getty Images) 

‎”Of course, there was a lot of speculation,” he stated. “But I had a full pre-season, and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I’m extremely happy at the club.”

‎While content at the club, the former Coventry City man remains determined to reclaim his starting spot in an increasingly competitive squad. “It’s clear that I want to play football as much as possible. Hopefully that will come, too,” Gyokeres admitted. “You always want to be on the field as a football player.

‎”Of course, you expect more playing time, but we have an extremely good squad with a lot of good players and have been doing well here at the start.”

‎Gyokeres also revealed he has held constructive talks with Arteta regarding his recent form and output. “I obviously need to do better and I’m willing to do it, so it’s no problem,” he explained. “It’s good [the dialogue with the coach]. I just try to do well when I get the chance and score goals.”

‎The forward will be eager to emulate his scoring form for Sweden when club football resume. With strikes against Romania and Poland, Arteta will also be eager to have him firing from all cylinder.

‎