London: Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta believes their recent acquisition, Viktor Gyokeres, who cost a high fee, is progressing at the club after his quiet performance against Spanish side Villarreal at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal supporters, who waited weeks for Gyokeres to wear the Gunners shirt, finally got their wish granted. The prolific number nine finally arrived in London from Portugal and made his home debut. Many thought that the Swedish striker was the final element needed to realize Arsenal's Premier League goals, but they were mistaken.
Gyokeres showed indications of having difficulties adapting his game around his new teammates while still seeking for his first Arsenal goal. Arteta believes the 27-year-old requires more playing time to develop ties with his new colleagues in order to get into the appropriate place.
He has only been with us for a week or so, but I have already observed a number of things and a strong feeling of purpose, notably how he attacks particular regions. So, in general, we have a large number of players who have not played many minutes who are now in a much better condition to compete on Saturday, he told reporters, according to Goal. com.
I believe he has a fantastic attitude since he trains daily and every day. I believe he has also built connections outside, which I believe is critical for players who will assist him in attaining the place where he wants to be. His fitness level, I believe, he hasn't trained with the squad in two months, so he's had five or six sessions prior to today. So, I believe he will take another step on Saturday, placing him in a better position, he said.
Arsenal have one more match left in the annual Emirates Cup, which is against Athletic Club on Saturday, after losing 3-2 to Villarreal. The Gunners will then step up their preparations for the season opener against Manchester United on August 17.
