Viktor Gyokeres opened his Arsenal account in emphatic fashion as the Gunners wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Emirates.
The Swedish striker, who joined for £63.5m earlier this summer, endured a frustrating debut against Villarreal in midweek, failing to find the net in a defeat. But his second appearance in front of the home crowd brought smiles all around. Teed up by fellow summer signing Martin Zubimendi, Gyokeres powered an inch-perfect header past Unai Simon before pulling out his trademark celebration to the delight of Arsenal supporters.
Just two minutes later, the hosts doubled their lead through a sweeping move that again involved Gyokeres. The striker cushioned the ball into the path of Declan Rice, whose clipped pass released Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian unselfishly squared for Bukayo Saka to tap home after Simon had raced off his line and left his goal exposed.
Havertz Rounds Off Confident Arsenal Display
After the interval, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta introduced Noni Madueke, but it was Gyokeres who continued to dominate the attacking headlines. Using his strength and touch, he linked up well with Saka, making intelligent runs into the channels and creating space for teammates.
He almost bagged a brace when he dived to meet Madueke’s cross, only to see his header tipped onto the post by Simon’s fine save. The forward was substituted to a standing ovation on 70 minutes, replaced by Kai Havertz. The German ensured the momentum remained firmly with Arsenal, capitalising on a loose ball in midfield before sprinting clear, holding off his marker, and drilling low into the far corner to seal the win.
The comprehensive performance sent Arsenal into the new Premier League season with confidence high and competition for the central striking role intensifying.
Arteta Praises Gyokeres’ Instincts, Warns Rivals
Speaking after the game, Arteta was full of praise for Gyokeres’ natural ability to trouble defenders. “Everything he does is on instinct. That’s why he’s scored so many goals in recent seasons,” he said. “The moment you give him space one-on-one, he will destroy you. He also creates a lot of space for others.”
Arteta highlighted the importance of the striker’s breakthrough goal, noting its potential to lift confidence ahead of competitive fixtures. “That first goal is always very important, and the way he took it was really, really good,” the Spaniard added. He also lauded Havertz’s composed finish and stressed that raising the overall level of the squad would be key in the campaign ahead.
With the Premier League opener at Old Trafford looming, Arteta acknowledged the healthy selection dilemma in deciding between Gyokeres and Havertz for the starting striker role. “It’s a good problem to have,” he remarked. “Both are in form, and that’s what we want.”
Zubimendi Impresses in Midfield Masterclass
While Gyokeres grabbed the headlines, Zubimendi quietly stole the show. The Spanish midfielder, signed earlier in the summer, was instrumental in both defensive solidity and attacking build-up. His pinpoint cross for Gyokeres’ opener showcased his technical quality, while his anticipation and ball-winning ability repeatedly snuffed out Athletic Club’s attacks.
Zubimendi’s presence allowed Rice to push forward with greater freedom, creating fluid midfield rotations with captain Martin Ødegaard. Arteta deployed the trio together for the first time, and the interchangeability between them added an extra layer of unpredictability to Arsenal’s play.
“It’s another evolution for the team,” Arteta said. “The way they complement each other makes us more of a threat and much harder to read.” For many observers, Gyokeres may be the glamour signing of the summer, but Zubimendi’s blend of intelligence and tenacity could make him Arsenal’s most influential addition.
Focus Turns to Old Trafford Test
With pre-season wrapped up, Arsenal now face the challenge of starting their Premier League campaign away to Manchester United. The Gunners’ final warm-up match showcased attacking fluency, defensive organisation, and depth in key positions.
The spotlight will be firmly on Arteta’s team selection next weekend, with both Gyokeres and Havertz staking strong claims to lead the line. Meanwhile, Zubimendi’s seamless integration offers tactical flexibility against a United side likely to test Arsenal’s midfield resilience.
For the fans, the dominant win over Athletic Club was more than just a friendly—it was a promising preview of what this refreshed Arsenal squad could deliver in the season ahead.
