Mansion Sports – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed full confidence that new signing Viktor Gyökeres will be “100% or even more” ready when the Gunners open their Premier League campaign against Manchester United on 17 August. 

The Swedish striker, acquired in a high-profile transfer, is expected to play a central role in Arsenal’s attacking setup despite a limited pre-season so far.

Pre-season Performances and High Expectations

Gyökeres has featured for a total of 77 minutes across two pre-season matches—both ending in defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal—without yet finding the back of the net. 

Signed for a fee that could rise to £63.5 million (approximately $84.9 million) once performance-related add-ons are met, the 26-year-old arrives in North London with immense expectations, having scored 97 goals for Sporting CP over the last two seasons. 

His prolific record in Portugal has heightened anticipation among fans and pundits that he can replicate such form in the Premier League.

Arteta’s Response Following Villarreal Match

In Arsenal’s most recent outing against Villarreal, Gyökeres registered just 14 touches and a single shot on target, as the team struggled to break down a well-organised defence that relied on swift counterattacks. 

Asked whether the former Coventry City forward would be ready for the season opener at Old Trafford, Arteta answered with complete assurance.

“100%. I believe mentally, and in terms of understanding what he needs to do, he will be 100% ready or even more,” said Arteta. 

“Because he is so determined and confident that he can contribute immediately, I have no doubt he will be in a very good place.”

A Crucial Step in the Adaptation Process

Arteta explained that starting Gyökeres against Villarreal—after only using him as a substitute versus Spurs—was an important step in accelerating his adaptation to the team.

“He has only been with us for about a week, but I have already seen many positives, particularly in the way he attacks certain areas,” Arteta remarked. 

“For many players who have not had a lot of minutes, this match serves as preparation to be in better condition for Saturday’s game against Athletic Club.”

Why Additional Time Was Needed for Full Fitness

One reason Gyökeres requires time to reach peak condition is related to the circumstances of his transfer. 

In an effort to push through his move to Arsenal, he declined to train with Sporting, placing pressure on the Portuguese club to finalise the deal.

“Every day in training, I can see him feeling more comfortable,” Arteta added. “He is starting to build connections off the pitch, which is very important in helping him be in the best position when playing.”

“Physically, he hasn’t trained with the team for two months, and before Wednesday, he had only completed five training sessions.”

“I think by Saturday he will take another step forward and be in even better shape,” the manager concluded.