Coach Arteta warns Gyokeres may leave Arsenal

Manager Mikel Arteta has reminded Viktor Gyokeres that the forward needs to cope with the pressure during goal droughts at Arsenal.

Tonight (October 18, Vietnam time), Arsenal will visit Fulham in the 8th round of the Premier League.

In the pre-match press conference, Mikel Arteta addressed Viktor Gyokeres’ form, noting that the striker has been goalless in his last eight appearances across all competitions. The Spanish coach believes the new signing must get used to the pressure and improve immediately, or he risks being dropped.

Arteta stated: "From the first time we met, I told him I want a number 9 who can withstand pressure, even if he doesn't score in six or eight consecutive games. If he can't do that, he should consider another path, because expectations will always be there.

If you wear Arsenal's number 9 shirt, you have to ask yourself: ‘After six games without scoring, am I a different player? Do I behave differently?’ No, I want him to keep showing exactly what he is doing.

Looking at the history of number 9 strikers, such periods are normal. He brings a lot of value to the team, creating space and opportunities for his teammates. With the talent the team has, I am confident everyone, including him, will benefit from that."

So far, Gyokeres has scored three goals for Arsenal, but his last goal came on September 13, during Arsenal's victory over Nottingham Forest. Despite inconsistent form, the 1998-born star will continue to be trusted for now, as the team has limited options upfront with Kai Havertz still recovering from knee surgery.

However, captain Martin Odegaard will be sidelined for at least a month after suffering an internal ligament injury in his left knee during Arsenal’s win against West Ham, just before the international break.

Arteta said: “Martin’s exact return date is still uncertain, but he is recovering well and is expected back within a few weeks. He is in good spirits. As captain, he cannot slack off; he must raise standards and lead by example.

When there are no other options, like a father caring for his children, he must be present and take responsibility within the team.”

Arsenal is currently considered a strong contender for the Premier League title after capitalizing on Liverpool’s two consecutive losses to top the table.

Arteta’s team has the chance to extend their lead over Liverpool to four points before the defending champions host Man Utd on Sunday.

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