Gyokeres, the Goal Predator, Not Just Arsenal's "Decoy"

LONDON, SATURDAY - More than half a year since joining Arsenal, striker Viktor Gyokeres has begun to truly shine. The striker is slowly taking on the role of goal machine that "The Cannon" has longed for. Gyokeres is no longer just a decoy or a distraction in the opponent's penalty box.

Arsenal has extended its lead in the race for the Premier League title after defeating Sunderland 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium, London, on Saturday (7/2/2026 WIB). The team, managed by Mikel Arteta, is now nine points ahead of its closest competitor, Manchester City, which is set to visit Liverpool's home ground on Sunday night.

The victory was initiated by midfielder Martin Zubimendi with a goal from outside the penalty area in the first half. Gyokeres concluded the visitors' resistance with a contribution of two goals after the break. Gyokeres made an instant impact after coming on as a substitute, replacing forward Gabriel Jesus.

"They are a very good team, very strong and skilled in aerial duels. So the match was full of duels. However, we have managed to show throughout this season that many players can make an impact from the bench. That is a good sign," said Gyokeres, who just came on after an hour of play.

Before Gyokeres entered, Arsenal was only leading 1-0. The hosts were struggling amid Sunderland's urgency to find an equalizing goal. The Arsenal squad was trapped in a difficult situation. They were hesitant to play too openly, yet also tried to escape the pressure from the visiting team.

The unease of Declan Rice and his teammates is closely related to a series of poor results in league matches at home. They have failed to win consecutively twice at the Emirates Stadium. The burden on the Arsenal squad is becoming heavier as they have entered a crucial phase in the title race.

Arteta's decision to include Gyokeres proved to be correct. Just six minutes after entering the game, the Swedish national team striker doubled the lead. The goal showcased the presence of a goal predator in the penalty area. They lacked that figure in the first hour as Jesus operated more in the outer areas.

Arteta was forced to bench Gyokeres due to the need for rotation. The player had just started in the match against Chelsea in the second semifinal of the English League Cup earlier in the week. "I think from the way he came in, he is always ready (to help the team). I am very pleased with that reaction," he said.

In injury time, Gyokeres scored a brace on the counter-attack. His hunger for goals was evident throughout the attack. The goal came when Sunderland lost possession in Arsenal's half. Gyokeres immediately sprinted into the opposition penalty box to provide a passing option for Gabriel Martinelli.

Fiery Gyokers

The contribution marks the sixth goal for Gyokeres in the last eight matches across all competitions. No other player in the English League has surpassed his goal tally in 2026. For context, he had previously managed to score only seven goals from 23 matches since the beginning of the season.

Due to a lack of goals in the early part of the season, Gyokeres was once considered to merely serve as a distraction in the penalty area. His role was solely to draw the attention of opposing defenders and provide space for other Arsenal forwards. However, time gradually proved the prowess of the 2025 Gerd Muller Trophy recipient.

According to Gyokeres, it is not easy to adapt after moving from the Portuguese club Sporting CP. This is not only the case for him but also for his teammates who are tasked with being facilitators. "Everything is going naturally. You start to understand everything better, from the system to the people around. I just keep trying to help the team with goals," he said.

Gyokeres is always lacking in supply. Just look at the league statistics; he has only recorded 37 shots so far. In comparison, Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who is the top scorer, has made 87 shots. Arsenal players are still adapting to a system that employs a pure striker or "number 9."

Gyokeres is starting to find chemistry with the Gunners' attackers, particularly Kai Havertz, who has just returned from injury. Havertz has provided two assists for Gyokeres in just the last four games. He also provided the assist for Gyokeres' first goal against Sunderland.

The biggest difference with Gyokeres at present is his confidence. He appears comfortable on the field, no longer rushing to score goals. As a result, the striker can be more composed when receiving the ball or executing opportunities. In the previous match, for instance, he did not easily lose the ball as he usually does.

Arteta has predicted that the best version of Gyokeres will surely come, as the player's work ethic is very good. "I like his character. The way he approaches each day and the fact that he is very focused on the present and what he needs to do. He also has a genuine desire to help the team in any role," explained the manager. (AP/REUTERS)