Viktor Gyokeres blew the dust off a stubborn goalless streak in spectacular fashion, netting twice as Arsenal dismantled Atlético Madrid 4–0. The relief on his face was plain to see, but what mattered more to Mikel Arteta was the reinforcement of a bigger truth: Gyokeres isn’t just scoring — he is making Arsenal a more dangerous, unpredictable team.
From Frustration to Fulfilment
After a flying start of three goals in his first four appearances, the £64m signing endured seven games without finding the net and wore his frustration at times. Yet teammates and staff never lost faith. Arteta’s public embrace after the West Ham win was less about consolation and more about recognition of the forward’s unseen work: pressing, holding, creating space and lifting teammates.
Endurance Under Pressure
Thrown into heavy minutes earlier than planned because Kai Havertz is sidelined with a knee injury, Gyokeres has already completed seven full games in Arsenal’s opening 12 fixtures. That workload could have sapped confidence, but instead it revealed his stamina and value across attack and defence. Against Atlético he combined physical dominance with clinical finishing to remind everyone of his lethal instincts.
Two Different Goals, One Clear Message
Gyokeres’ brace in the rout were textbook examples of his range: one a piece of pure striker’s instinct, the other a composed finish that underlined technique and timing. Arteta called the goals “the icing on the cake” — the rewards for weeks of graft and tactical contribution — and hopes they usher in a sustained run of form.
Team Lifted by Individual Work Rate
The celebration that followed — pushed forward by teammates to soak up the crowd’s praise — spoke to something deeper than individual joy. It was a squad affirming what they already knew: Gyokeres elevates everyone around him. Arteta praised his physicality, movement and pressing, saying those traits open spaces and create chances for others, making Arsenal less predictable and more dangerous.
Confidence Restored, Momentum Building
Gyokeres now has five goals in 12 appearances and looks recharged rather than relieved. He told UEFA he keeps working hard, contributes in multiple ways and trusts the goals will come. Arteta’s message was clear: keep believing, stay free in the head and let the game flow. Tuesday’s performance showed exactly what can happen when that mindset clicks.
Arsenal’s Broader Dominance
The 4–0 victory underlines a remarkable early-season run for the Gunners. They have kept three clean sheets in three Champions League group fixtures, won 10 of 12 matches in all competitions and sit top of the Premier League by three points. Defensive solidity plus offensive firepower are combining to create the club’s best start in its 138-year history.
Looking Ahead
There is still a long road to travel this season, and Gyokeres knows it. The striker and his teammates will take it game by game, but after Tuesday night the feeling around the Emirates is unmistakable: Arsenal have added a striker who not only finishes chances but reshapes the way the entire team plays. Sunday’s trip to Crystal Palace will be the next chance to see whether this spark becomes a sustained blaze.
