Mikel Arteta comments on Viktor Gyokeres after Villarreal loss

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August 6, 2025 21:33 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacted to the performance of Viktor Gyokeres following the Gunners’ pre-season friendly defeat to Villarreal.

The London giants started pre-season with victories over AC Milan and Newcastle United, but have since suffered losses to Tottenham and Villarreal.

Villarreal picked up a 3-2 victory at the Emirates earlier today. Gyokeres made his first start in the club’s colours, but could not find the back of the net.

The Swede had a solitary chance on goal which was blocked. Speaking after the game, Arteta was asked whether the striker is not upto full match fitness.

In response, he said: “I think mentally and understanding what he needs to do, it will be 100 per cent or more because he’s so willing and so confident as well that he can deliver straight away. I have no doubt that he will be in a really good place.”

Arsenal have one more friendly against Athletic at home on Saturday, and Arteta will no doubt pick his strongest starting line-up for the game.

Gyokeres had Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Merino and Christian Norgaard behind him in midfield. He was not handed with any clear-cut scoring chances.

Against Athletic, he can expect to have Martin Zubimendi, Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, who are undoubtedly the regular starters.