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Arsenal have made a remarkable start to the campaign, winning 8 from their opening ten games, but it hasn't proven as easy for recent striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Following 3 scores in his initial four games, the expensive acquisition has not scored for 6 consecutive games, as manager the Spanish tactician revealing he gave the Sweden striker an embrace following the weekend's 2-0 win over the Hammers in recognition of his efforts.

Playing Minutes and Squad Factors

Gyokeres has featured for 90 minutes across six of Arsenal's first 10 games - more than Arteta initially intended for, due to the knee injury affecting the German midfielder limiting the ability Arteta has to rotate the 27-year-old.

The German player represents one of Arteta's most trusted squad members while exists an argument to be had that the German might have started in place of the Swedish striker during big road matches against Liverpool - Arsenal's only defeat this campaign - the Magpies plus Manchester United, which they won.

There is also the fact the striker did not undergo complete summer preparation before joining, and missed squad sessions with his former club when he looked to secure a transfer toward north London.

Goal-Scoring History & Expectations

But Gyokeres is a immediate impact signing, who notched ninety-seven times in one hundred two games for Sporting in two seasons with the Portuguese club.

His lack of scoring aren't a problem since the team are securing victories currently, but he is an athlete who was brought in to help the squad over the line as they attempt to secure their first title since 2020.

Manager's Viewpoint and Squad Integration

Arteta has shown an appreciation for the striker's effort during the initial games while heaped compliments upon the forward regarding his contributions which can go unnoticed whenever the chance has arisen to do so.

Following the Gunners' win over Olympiacos, he called the striker's display "outstanding" and commended the player's "work-rate".

At the time the club acquired Gyokeres, there was an expectation his inclusion would create opportunities to benefit the various attacking talents the team possess supporting him including the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze plus the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

Arsenal have altered their style this campaign to get the ball between the lines more quickly while have adjusted their strategy to become more direct.

This is in part to extract the best out of the Swedish striker, that doesn't attempt to drift into midfield and link play similar to Havertz, rather whose strength is felt as making runs between both defenders and into the gaps in behind.

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

This is shown by the 23 chances Gyokeres has received, however he has only mustered seven shots on target from those chances across 10 matches, including one coming via a spot-kick.

Tactical Adjustments and Team Support

Arsenal had difficulty to penetrate sides employing defensive setup last season when they faded during the championship pursuit, and their revised style aims to damage the opposition while playing quickly.

The team are also crossing the ball with increased frequency to generate more chances.

One of Gyokeres' three goals so far originated from a spot-kick however that was at a time Saka was already been replaced during the five-nil victory over United.

Arteta said the Swedish striker represents the top spot-kick specialist in the squad in an interview with the sports network, but it was the English international that assumed the penalty during the win over the Hammers while both were present on the field, suggesting the English winger could be the primary option to take them this season.

Squad Member Encouragement and Belief

Saka, who made his two hundredth English top flight appearance for Arsenal in the win on Saturday, has backed Gyokeres to succeed.

"In my opinion Viktor's playing really, really impressively," the Englishman stated post-game with the Hammers.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's providing to the squad, us as his colleagues, we are extremely appreciative for what he does - the manner he retains possession, how he makes movements, the threat he provides us.

"He's a significant component of the reason we're winning these matches. His scoring will arrive. We know that, we believe that while we believe in his abilities. I don't believe there are doubts. He's still up, he continues to be happy and he's still giving his best every game."

Upcoming Prospects for The Striker

It's reasonable to say it hasn't proven the most straightforward of starts for the Swedish international, but that does not mean there are not indicators to show situations will become better.

Gyokeres began the campaign attempting catch-up regarding his conditioning following a disrupted summer preparation.

The German's injury has resulted in he has been thrust into situations earlier compared to perhaps anticipated - this has also caused the connections with midfielders behind him which haven't quite clicked have been highlighted.

Gyokeres is a eager movement maker and consistently looks for {space|g