It was only early in the early season against Villarreal, but there were still feelings of excitement and expectations heading to the Emirates Stadium when Arsenal supporters looked to see the new $ 64m signing Viktor Gyokeres in action.
Fans look forward to the 27 -year -old striker will be the missing piece for the Gunners to lift the trophy for the first time since 2020.
The biggest cheers before the start was for Gyokeres when his name was read in the start-up ranks only the opponent came to the introduction of the 15-year-old Max Dowman.
There was expectations every time the ball went closer to the Swedish international and it seemed as though his teammates were also trying to make sure Gyokeres scored the first goal, and to his new home field.
That did not happen when Arsenal lost 3-2 on La Liga, and another warm season of Christian Norgaard and Captain Martin Odegaard to the goal in each half.
But there were promising signs and Gyokeres of the clock played will be important for its balance before the start of the new Premier League season in Manchester United on Sunday, August 17.
Since he has not practiced with the team for two months after leaving Sporting and another Arsenal game to follow Saturday against Athletic Bilbao, manager Mikel Arteta said “100%” will be ready for the Old Traoord test.
“I think mentally, and understand what he needs to do, he will be 100% or more.” Added the Spanish.
“Because he is ready and so confident he can give it right away, I have no doubt that he will be in a good position.
“We have already broken that line today, because I think it was very important for him to start the match and start to feel emotional and relationship with the team.
“He has been with us a week or so, but I have already seen a lot of things and purposes, especially how he was attacking in some positions.
“So, in general, for many players who haven’t played many minutes, we have a lot now as they will be ready for Saturday (against Bilbao) in the best possible situation.”
