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Arsenal have enjoyed a remarkable beginning to the campaign, winning eight from their opening 10 games, but it's been less as straightforward for new striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Following three scores in his initial four matches, the £64m signing has not found the net in 6 consecutive games, as manager Mikel Arteta stating he gave the Sweden forward an embrace after Saturday's two-nil win over the Hammers in recognition of his efforts.

Playing Minutes & Team Dynamics

The Swedish striker has played 90 minutes across six of Arsenal's opening ten matches - more than the manager planned for, due to the fitness issue to Kai Havertz limiting the ability Arteta has to rotate the Swedish international.

The German player is one of the manager's key players while there is a case to be had that Havertz would have started instead of Gyokeres during big road fixtures against Liverpool - Arsenal's sole defeat this campaign - Newcastle United plus Manchester United, which they won.

There is also the reality Gyokeres didn't have a full summer preparation prior to joining, while missed team sessions at Sporting when he looked to force through a move to Arsenal.

Scoring Record & Expectations

But the Swedish international is a win-now signing, that scored ninety-seven goals in 102 appearances with Sporting in his two seasons at the Portuguese team.

His drought in goals aren't an issue since Arsenal are securing victories currently, but he is a player who was signed to the club to get the squad across the finish line as they try to win their initial title since two thousand twenty.

Manager's Viewpoint and Team Adaptation

The Arsenal manager has shown recognition for Gyokeres' effort during the opening games and heaped praise upon the forward for his contributions that can go unnoticed when the chance has arisen to do so.

Following of Arsenal's victory against Olympiacos, he called the striker's performance "outstanding" and praised the player's "work-rate".

When the club acquired the Swedish international, there was a belief his presence would open up the space for the multiple offensive players the team possess behind him including Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze plus Gabriel Martinelli.

Numerical Analysis

The North London club have altered their style this season to get the ball through midfield faster and have adapted their strategy to become more direct.

This represents partially to get the best from Gyokeres, who does not look to drift into midfield and connect passes similar to the German, rather his strength is felt to be running through the two defenders and into the gaps in behind.

Observing the Gunners this season, one can notice the midfielders are attempting for the ball that could release Gyokeres for opportunities.

This is demonstrated in the 23 chances Gyokeres has had, however he has merely managed seven attempts on goal with those chances in ten games, including one being from the penalty spot.

Strategic Changes and Squad Support

Arsenal struggled to penetrate sides in a low block last season when they faded in the championship pursuit, and their revised style aims to hurt opponents by playing quickly.

The team are also crossing more regularly with increased frequency to generate more chances.

Among the striker's 3 scores this season came from the penalty spot however that was when Saka had already been replaced during the five-nil victory over Leeds.

The manager stated the Swedish striker represents the best penalty taker at the club in an interview with the sports network, yet it was Saka that assumed the penalty during the victory against West Ham when both were on the pitch, suggesting the English winger might be first choice for penalties this term.

Squad Member Encouragement & Belief

Saka, that completed his two hundredth English top flight appearance for Arsenal in the victory this weekend, has backed Gyokeres to thrive.

"I think Viktor's performing really, really impressively," the Englishman stated after the match with the Hammers.

"Without question he will score goals. What he's providing to this team, us as his team-mates, we're so grateful for what he delivers - the manner he holds the ball, how he makes movements, the threat he provides us.

"He's a big part why we're winning these matches. His goals will arrive. We know that, we're confident and we have faith in his abilities. I don't believe there's any doubts. He remains up, he's still content and he's consistently giving maximum effort every game."

Upcoming Outlook Regarding The Striker

It is fair to say it has not been the most straightforward beginning for the Swedish international, however that does not mean there aren't signs to show things will get better.

The striker started the campaign attempting catch-up with his conditioning after a disrupted pre-season.

Havertz's fitness issue has meant he has been thrust into circumstances sooner than perhaps anticipated - it has also meant the connections with midfielders behind him which haven't quite clicked have been emphasized.

The striker represents a willing runner while constantly seeks out {space|g