Mikel Arteta: Viktor Gyökeres 'really needed' a good Arsenal performance

Mikel Arteta acknowledged that Viktor Gyökeres needed a strong performance after the forward played a key role in Arsenal's 2-1 Champions League victory against Slavia Prague. Gyökeres, who joined Arsenal in July 2025, contributed one assist and scored a goal in what Arteta described as one of his best outings since his arrival. Despite having limited playing time this season and only one previous goal, Gyökeres excelled in this match, showcasing his ability to connect with the team and exploit spaces left by the opposition.

Gyökeres expressed his satisfaction with the win and his contributions to the goals, noting that he feels good about his performance. He highlighted the importance of being involved in attacks as a striker and acknowledged the team's strong run in both the Champions League and the league. While he recognized the need for improvement, he remained positive about their current standing in the competition, especially following a challenging second half where they had to defend a late goal from Slavia Prague.