Arteta Backs Gyokeres to Reach ‘Highest Level’ After Double in Arsenal’s 3-0 Victory Over Sunderland

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised striker Viktor Gyokeres for raising his game to the “highest level” after the much-criticized forward scored twice in a 3-0 win over Sunderland on Saturday. The victory pushed Arsenal nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, as they chase a long-awaited English title, their first in 22 years.

The match at the Emirates Stadium saw Martin Zubimendi open the scoring with a stunning strike just before halftime, and Gyokeres sealed the win in the second half with a brace. The Swedish international latched onto a precise pass from Kai Havertz, drilling home to make it 2-0 before finding the back of the net again in stoppage time after a fine assist from Gabriel Martinelli.

Gyokeres has had a difficult start at Arsenal following his £64 million ($87 million) move from Sporting Lisbon, where his prolific performances earned him the big-money transfer. However, the forward is now Arteta’s top scorer with 13 goals in all competitions, including six in his last eight appearances.

Arteta, speaking after the win, emphasized the importance of confidence in football and how crucial it is for players to feel supported and valued:
“Confidence is the magic word. When you feel confident, when you feel important, when you feel at your best, that’s when you can really take your game to the highest level. We are really behind him in every moment to try to help him, to try to support him. He is delivering, and he’s in a really good moment now.”

He added, “Obviously, when you put that shirt on, there is a lot of responsibility and huge expectation, and you need to live with that.”

Looking ahead, Arteta acknowledged that the Premier League title race is far from over, despite Arsenal’s commanding lead:
“Manchester City can reduce the gap at the top back to six points on Sunday, but will need to secure their first win away to Liverpool in front of a crowd since 2003 to do so. We still have to win so many games to achieve what we want,” Arteta remarked.

He also revealed that, while enjoying Arsenal’s victory, he’s already focused on the next challenge. “I’m going to have a beautiful dinner tonight. Tomorrow I start to prepare for Brentford (on Thursday), because it’s going to be a really tough one. And in the meantime, I will be watching a big, big game,” he said.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did Mikel Arteta praise Viktor Gyokeres after the Sunderland match?

Arteta praised Gyokeres for his strong performance, scoring twice to help Arsenal secure a dominant 3-0 victory over Sunderland and maintain their position at the top of the Premier League.

How many goals has Gyokeres scored for Arsenal?

As of now, Viktor Gyokeres has scored 13 goals in all competitions for Arsenal, with six goals in his last eight appearances.

What is Viktor Gyokeres’ transfer fee to Arsenal?

Viktor Gyokeres was acquired by Arsenal for £64 million ($87 million), making him one of the club’s most expensive signings.

What did Mikel Arteta say about confidence and Gyokeres?

Arteta highlighted the importance of confidence, stating that when players feel confident and supported, they can elevate their performances to the “highest level,” which Gyokeres is currently achieving.

What’s next for Arsenal in their Premier League title race?

Arsenal currently hold a nine-point lead at the top of the table. However, Arteta emphasized that they still have to win many more games to secure the title. The team’s next match is against Brentford on Thursday.