Mikel Arteta issued a fierce warning to Arsenal’s Premier League rivals following the 3-0 win over Athletic Club. Arsenal made sure to finish their pre-season endeavours with a win as they put in an assertive display to beat Athletic Bilbao on Saturday. First-half goals from Viktor Gyökeres and Bukayo Saka put them in a commanding position, before Kai Havertz added a third in the second half. The Gunners played the ball with zip and purpose, resulting in a performance and result that will take them into the season full of belief and confidence. Arguably the biggest talking point from the encounter will be Viktor Gyökeres’ first goal for the club. Despite concerns over his aerial ability before the transfer, the Swede scored with a brilliantly headed goal from a pinpoint delivery from Martin Zubimendi.
Speaking to reporters, as picked up by HaytersTV after the game, Mikel Arteta pointed out the importance of his first goal for the club, while firing a stern warning to their Premier League rivals. “That first goal is always very important. The way he took it as well, really well,” he continued, “Everything that he does, his movement, timing, the way he predicts the next move, where the space is going to be, that’s the instinct he has. That’s why he’s scored so many goals in the last few seasons. He pins both centre backs. He’s a player that if you leave him with space one against one, he’s gonna destroy you so he’s going to create a lot of space for us. In any situation there is a player there that can score a goal.”
Fans would have no doubt been impressed by his all-round display. He took his goal well, but he also impressed with his hold-up play and dribbling, with the former perfectly illustrated by his role in Bukayo Saka’s goal.
After featuring against Tottenham and Villarreal without making a significant impact, the importance of that goal cannot be overemphasised, especially with the new season just a week away. It is important not to get ahead of ourselves given it is just one game, but fans should be encouraged by what they saw. If Gyökeres and Arsenal play like that against Manchester United, a win will be the only outcome.
How many goals do you see Gyökeres scoring this season?
