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Arsenal are experiencing a strong start this campaign, winning 8 of their first 10 games, but it's been less quite as easy for new forward Viktor Gyokeres.

After 3 scores during his first four matches, the expensive signing hasn't found the net in six consecutive games, as manager Mikel Arteta revealing he offered the Swedish forward a hug following Saturday's 2-0 win over the Hammers for his efforts.

Playing Minutes & Squad Factors

The Swedish striker has played full matches in six from Arsenal's first 10 games - beyond the manager planned for, due to the knee injury affecting the German midfielder restricting the ability Arteta possesses to rest the 27-year-old.

Havertz represents one of Arteta's key players while there is an argument to be had suggesting Havertz would have been selected instead of the Swedish striker during important away matches against Liverpool - Arsenal's only defeat of the season - Newcastle United plus Manchester United, games that they emerged victorious from.

Additionally, there's the fact the striker did not undergo complete summer preparation before joining, while missed squad sessions at his former club when he looked to secure a move to north London.

Scoring Record and Expectations

However Gyokeres represents a immediate impact signing, that scored 97 times across one hundred two games with his previous club in two campaigns with the Portuguese club.

The striker's drought in goals are not an issue since the team are securing victories currently, yet he is an athlete who was brought to the club to help the team over the line as they try to secure their first title since two thousand twenty.

Coach's Viewpoint & Squad Adaptation

Arteta has demonstrated recognition for Gyokeres' effort in the initial games while heaped praise upon the striker regarding his contributions that often goes unnoticed when the opportunity has presented itself.

In the aftermath of Arsenal's victory against Olympiacos, he called the forward's performance "outstanding" and praised the player's "effort level".

When Arsenal acquired Gyokeres, there was a feeling his inclusion would open up the space for the multiple offensive talents Arsenal possess supporting him including Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and the Brazilian forward.

Statistical Breakdown

The North London club have changed their style this season to move the ball through midfield more quickly and have adjusted their strategy to become more direct.

This represents partially to get the maximum out of the Swedish striker, that does not look to drop into midfield and link play like Havertz, rather his primary attribute is considered as making runs through both centre-backs toward the gaps behind them.

Observing the Gunners currently, it can be seen the midfielders are looking for passes that may free Gyokeres for a chance.

This is demonstrated by the 23 chances the forward has received, however he has only mustered seven shots on target with those chances in 10 matches, including one being from the penalty spot.

Tactical Changes and Squad Support

Arsenal had difficulty to penetrate opponents employing defensive setup previous campaign as they faded during the championship pursuit, and their revised approach is designed to damage opponents by playing quickly.

Arsenal are likewise crossing more regularly with increased frequency to create more chances.

Among Gyokeres' three scores so far came from the penalty spot however this occurred at a time Saka was already been replaced during the 5-0 victory against United.

The manager stated the Swedish striker is the top penalty taker at the club in an interview for the sports network, yet it was the English international that assumed the penalty in the win against the Hammers while both were on the pitch, implying the English attacker might be the primary option to take them this season.

Squad Member Encouragement & Confidence

Saka, that made his two hundredth Premier League appearance with the Gunners during the win this weekend, has expressed confidence in the Swedish striker to thrive.

"I think Gyokeres' playing extremely impressively," the Englishman stated after the match against the Hammers.

"There's no doubt he will score goals. What he's providing to the squad, we as his team-mates, we're so grateful of what he does - the manner he retains possession, how he makes the runs, the threat he gives the team.

"He represents a significant component why we're securing victories in these matches. His goals will come. We know that, we're confident while we have faith in him. I don't think there's any doubts. He's still up, he's still content while he's consistently giving his best each match."

Future Outlook for Gyokeres

It is fair to state it has not been the easiest of starts for Gyokeres, however that does not mean there aren't indicators suggesting things will get improved.

The striker started the season playing to recover regarding his fitness after an interrupted summer preparation.

The German's injury has meant him being placed into situations earlier compared to possibly anticipated - it has also meant the relationships with midfielders behind him that have not fully developed are being emphasized.

Gyokeres represents a willing runner and constantly looks for {space|g