A report published by Metro on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, says Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reassured Viktor Gyokeres that he remains an important part of the team, even though the striker has been an unused substitute in two consecutive Premier League matches.Gyokeres stayed on the bench during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park on Monday. The result strengthened the Gunners’ impressive opening to the Premier League season as they continue their effort to defend the title.
Bukayo Saka scored the only goal of the match shortly before the hour mark, while Arsenal’s organized defense protected the lead and recorded another clean sheet.Gyokeres’ continued absence from the starting lineup has prompted questions, especially because he has endured a challenging beginning to the new campaign. The striker enjoyed a productive first season with Arsenal, scoring 22 goals in all competitions after joining the club from Sporting Lisbon.
However, his position in the team has become less certain following Kai Havertz’s return to form, with Arteta increasingly favoring the German forward.Gyokeres was also listed among the substitutes for the Community Shield before entering the match late in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Manchester City. His limited involvement has therefore become a notable talking point as the season progresses.Arteta has stressed that Gyokeres’ reduced playing time should not be interpreted as a negative judgment about his ability or importance.
Instead, the manager pointed to the demanding schedule and the physical intensity of the season, explaining that careful squad management is necessary to keep players fit, maintain competition for places, and handle the club’s various commitments.
He commended the team’s display against Villa, emphasizing the quality and effectiveness of its performance, and reassured players who have featured less frequently that they will receive opportunities to contribute as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Arsenal has given teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri permission to complete a season-long loan move to Borussia Dortmund, with the transfer still subject to a medical in Germany before it can be finalized. Gyokeres has also remained the subject of transfer speculation involving Barcelona, while Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez has been mentioned in connection with the situation as the transfer deadline draws closer. Those developments have fueled questions about whether further movement could take place before the window closes.
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