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The Gunners have enjoyed a remarkable beginning this season, securing victories in eight of their opening ten games, but it hasn't proven quite as straightforward for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

Following three goals during his initial 4 games, the £64m acquisition hasn't scored for 6 consecutive games, with head coach Mikel Arteta stating he offered the Swedish striker an embrace following the weekend's two-nil win over the Hammers in recognition of his efforts.

Playing Time & Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes across six from Arsenal's opening ten matches - beyond Arteta planned him to play, due to the fitness issue to the German midfielder restricting the capacity Arteta has to rotate the Swedish international.

Havertz is one of the manager's most trusted squad members and exists a case to be had suggesting the German might have started in place of the Swedish striker in big away matches versus Liverpool - the Gunners' sole loss this season - Newcastle United and the Red Devils, which they won.

There is also the reality the striker did not undergo a full summer preparation prior to joining, and missed squad sessions at his former club when he looked to force through a move to north London.

Goal-Scoring Record and Anticipations

However the Swedish international is a win-now signing, that notched 97 times across 102 games with his previous club in his two campaigns at the Lisbon-based team.

His lack of goals are not an issue since Arsenal are securing victories at the moment, but he represents an athlete who was brought in to get the team across the finish line while they try to win their initial title since 2020.

Coach's Viewpoint and Squad Integration

The Arsenal manager has shown an appreciation of the striker's work rate in the opening matches and showered compliments on the striker regarding his contributions which often goes under the radar whenever the chance has arisen itself.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's victory against the Greek side, he described the striker's display "exceptional" and praised his "work-rate".

At the time Arsenal signed the Swedish international, existed a belief his presence would open up the space for the multiple attacking talents Arsenal possess supporting him in the Norwegian captain, Bukayo Saka, the creative midfielder and Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

The North London club have altered their approach this campaign to move the ball between the lines faster and have adjusted their strategy to be more vertical.

This represents in part to extract the best from Gyokeres, that doesn't attempt to drop deeper and connect passes like Havertz, but whose strength is considered to be making runs through both defenders toward the space in behind.

When watching Arsenal this season, one can notice the central players are attempting to find passes that could free Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is shown by the twenty-three opportunities Gyokeres has had, but he has only managed seven attempts on goal from those chances across ten matches, including one coming via the penalty spot.

Strategic Adjustments & Squad Backing

The Gunners struggled to penetrate opponents in a defensive setup previous campaign when they faded in the title race, so their new style is designed to hurt opponents by playing quickly.

The team are also delivering crosses more regularly with increased frequency to generate additional opportunities.

One of the striker's three scores this season originated from a spot-kick however this occurred at a time Saka was already been substituted during the five-nil victory over United.

The manager said the Swedish striker is the best penalty taker at the club during a discussion with the sports network, yet it was Saka that took the penalty during the victory over the Hammers when both were on the pitch, suggesting the England winger might be first choice for penalties this season.

Squad Member Encouragement & Belief

The Arsenal winger, that made his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the win on Saturday, has expressed confidence in Gyokeres to succeed.

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

"Without question he's going to score goals. What he's providing to the squad, us as his colleagues, we're so appreciative for what he delivers - the manner he retains possession, the way he makes movements, the threat he provides us.

"He represents a big part of the reason we're winning these games. His goals will arrive. We're aware, we're confident while we have faith in his abilities. I don't think there are concerns. He remains up, he continues to be happy and he's consistently providing his best every game."

Upcoming Prospects Regarding The Striker

It's reasonable to state it hasn't proven the most straightforward of starts for Gyokeres, however that does not mean there aren't indicators to show things will get better.

The striker started the campaign playing to recover regarding his conditioning following a disrupted summer preparation.

Havertz's injury has meant him being thrust into circumstances earlier compared to perhaps planned - this has also caused the connections with midfielders supporting him that have not quite clicked have been emphasized.

Gyokeres represents a eager runner while constantly looks for {space|g