Viktor Gyokeres Makes Arsenal Debut as Fans Deliver Instant Verdict
Viktor Gyokeres finally made his long-awaited debut for Arsenal in a high-profile friendly against Spurs on Thursday — and fans have already made their voices heard on the club’s new No.14.
The 27-year-old Swedish striker was unveiled last week following a drawn-out summer transfer saga between Arsenal and Sporting CP, with negotiations over add-ons and bonuses stalling the deal. Ultimately, the Gunners landed their man in a deal worth up to £73 million, handing him a five-year contract.
Gyokeres arrives with huge expectations after a sensational season with Sporting, where he netted 54 goals in just 52 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25. His arrival was further amplified by being handed the iconic No.14 shirt — once worn by Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer, Thierry Henry.
Despite the inevitable comparisons, Gyokeres is focused on forging his own path.
“Especially here, I just want to do my own thing and show my qualities,” Gyokeres said. “Of course, he [Henry] was an amazing player, but different from me. I just want to try to do my own thing.”
Manager Mikel Arteta was equally enthusiastic about his new signing, highlighting Gyokeres’ mentality from their very first conversation.
“I use the word ‘conviction’ — that’s what I saw first,” Arteta revealed. “He was already emotionally invested in the club, in its history, in what the shirt represents. You could feel it instantly.”
Gyokeres is one of six summer signings for the Gunners so far, joining Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Noni Madueke in Arteta’s revamped squad.
In Thursday’s friendly clash in Hong Kong, Arsenal fell 1-0 to Spurs courtesy of a long-range stunner from Pape Matar Sarr, which caught David Raya off guard in front of a crowd of 47,000. Gyokeres came off the bench in the 76th minute, replacing Kai Havertz, and immediately sparked discussion online.
Fan Reactions: Gyokeres vs. Havertz Debate Heats Up
Arsenal fans wasted no time comparing the debutant to Havertz, who continues to divide opinion.
- “I feel like anyone that rated Havertz shouldn’t be allowed to enjoy Gyokeres. Just exit the sport,” one fan wrote.
- Another posted: “Can’t get Gyokeres in the game because Arsenal don’t create open play chances. Same issue Havertz faces. Arteta looks lost.”
- A third fan weighed in: “Clear as day—Gyokeres should start over Havertz. And we badly need a left winger.”
- While another added: “Gyokeres must start. Arteta’s insistence on Havertz is pure stubbornness.”
Arsenal now turn their attention to back-to-back friendlies at the Emirates Stadium, facing Villarreal on August 6 and Athletic Club on August 9 as they fine-tune preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League season.