Imagine being a multi-million-pound signing, stepping onto the pitch for one of the biggest clubs in the world, and then facing relentless criticism because the goals aren’t flowing as expected. That’s the reality for Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres, but here’s where it gets even more intriguing: his teammate, Gabriel Jesus, is stepping up to defend him, drawing from his own experiences of overcoming adversity. Jesus, who knows a thing or two about battling through tough times, believes Gyokeres is on the brink of proving his worth.
Gyokeres arrived at Arsenal last summer in a high-profile €63.5 million move from Sporting CP, with an additional €10 million in potential add-ons. Despite his impressive track record, the Swedish international has found life in the Premier League challenging, scoring just eight goals in 26 appearances. But Jesus, speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan, was quick to rally behind his teammate.
‘Vik is an incredible person, and we share a great relationship,’ Jesus explained. ‘We’re the same age, and I’ve had more time to adapt to the Premier League. We often exchange thoughts on scoring, and I know he’s got what it takes. He was a prolific goalscorer at his previous club, and I’m confident he’ll replicate that success here. It’s not just about goals—his overall contribution is invaluable.’
And this is the part most people miss: Gyokeres isn’t just competing with Jesus for the starting striker role; he’s also up against Kai Havertz, who’s returning from a long-term injury. When asked if he feels he’s the one to secure the spot, Jesus humbly acknowledged the talent around him. ‘It’s a tough question,’ he admitted. ‘Vik and Kai are both exceptional players, capable of scoring at any moment. For me, just being back on the pitch after an 11-month injury battle is a victory in itself.’
Jesus’s empathy for Gyokeres stems from his own struggles. ‘I’ve been in Vik’s shoes, and it’s not easy,’ he shared. ‘But the entire team, not just the coaching staff, is behind him. He’s already made significant contributions, even when he’s not on the scoresheet. His movement, his fighting spirit—it all adds up. At a club like Arsenal, nothing is guaranteed, and that’s what makes the competition so fierce.’
Here’s the controversial bit: While some fans are quick to write off Gyokeres, Jesus and other teammates are doubling down on their support. Bukayo Saka, for instance, praised Gyokeres’s adaptation in October, noting that the team is still learning to play to his strengths. Declan Rice echoed this sentiment after a recent win, highlighting the double-marking Gyokeres faces and his undeniable impact on the team’s success. ‘He’s one of the best strikers in the world,’ Rice boldly claimed. ‘We wouldn’t be where we are without him.’
Jesus, who himself faced scoring droughts after his big-money move to Arsenal in 2022, understands the pressure. His goal against Preston North End in October 2024 marked his first in nine months, a testament to his resilience. This shared experience allows him to offer Gyokeres not just support, but a roadmap to success.
As Arsenal sits atop the Champions League table with a perfect record, the question remains: Can Gyokeres silence his critics and become the goal machine Arsenal paid for? Jesus certainly thinks so, and he’s not alone. But here’s the thought-provoking question: In a league as competitive as the Premier League, how much time should a player like Gyokeres be given to adapt? And is it fair to judge him solely on goals when his overall contribution is so significant? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—do you think Gyokeres will prove his worth, or is the pressure too much?
