Arsenal fans have demanded Viktor Gyokeres start after the 28-year-old striker was benched for the Premier League clash with Aston Villa. Supporters took to social media to voice their frustration, with many believing the Swedish international should be leading the line ahead of Kai Havertz.
Why are Arsenal fans unhappy with the lineup?
Mikel Arteta named an unchanged backline from the side that beat Coventry City in the season opener. David Raya kept his place in goal, with Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori as the full-backs. Gabriel partnered Cristhian Mosquera in central defence, despite the recent signing of Ezri Konsa. In midfield, Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly started once more, with Martin Odegaard in the advanced role. Bukayo Saka and Christos Tzolis operated on the wings, while Kai Havertz was selected as the central striker.
The omission of Viktor Gyokeres, a £60 million signing, sparked immediate reaction online. One fan, Pradyuth, posted: "Gyok not getting chance this season😭💔". Another supporter, Baron Nyairo, questioned: "What wrong did Gyokeres do to Arteta?". The sentiment was echoed by cruz 🇺🇸, who stated: "He doesn’t like him I wish he can just move away from the club he’s too good to be on the bench."
What did Mikel Arteta say about the decision?
When quizzed about Gyokeres not getting minutes, the Arsenal manager explained it was a tactical call. Arteta told reporters, including those from Sportskeeda: "For different reasons - some of them physical, some players can’t last 60-90 minutes and we didn’t want to expose them." He emphasised the club's approach to communication, adding they try to be "as clear and transparent as possible" in delivering messages to players.
Arteta also provided updates on other squad members. He confirmed Jurrien Timber is on the right trajectory and making progress, but William Saliba was not ready for selection. The manager's comments come as Arsenal look to bolster their squad ahead of the transfer deadline on Tuesday, September 1. He said the club is examining the right options, a process complicated by last week's sale of Gabriel Martinelli.
How does this affect Arsenal's current season?
The debate over team selection unfolds as Arsenal sit 9th in the Premier League table with 3 points from one game. They have a goal difference of +3, having scored 3 and conceded 0 in their opening match. This leaves them 3 points behind early leaders Manchester City. The squad is currently dealing with several absences, with Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Jurriën Timber, William Saliba, and Bruno Guimarães all sidelined.
Fan frustration is amplified by the significant investment in Gyokeres. Dan Vear summed up the feeling by posting: "So we spend £60m on a striker for no reason now 😭😭 Everyone called for Havertz out a few seasons back😭😭". Another supporter, Bobby, asked for a simple explanation: "I need someone to explain to me, like a 6year-old, why Gyokeres is sitting on the bench." You can view the full squad and check the latest injuries list on our site.
What is next for Arsenal?
The immediate focus shifts to Arsenal's next fixture, a home match against Chelsea on September 6. Chelsea currently sit 3rd in the table, making it a significant early-season test. Arteta's selection decisions will be under intense scrutiny, especially if the attack fails to fire. The manager's commitment to transparency will be tested as he manages squad expectations amid a demanding schedule. Fans can follow the team's progress in the standings. Arsenal's next challenge is a London derby at home to Chelsea on Saturday, September 6, 2026.
