A calm and confident Viktor Gyokeres addressed the media on Monday ahead of what is being called the biggest night in Emirates Stadium history. Speaking on the eve of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, the Swedish striker looked like a man who has finally shrugged off the weight of his £64 million price tag.
Following a clinical two-goal performance against Fulham over the weekend, Gyokeres was the focal point of the pre-match press conference, where he opened up about his resurgence, his relationship with Bukayo Saka, and the high stakes of Tuesday night.
Finding His Feet
It hasn’t been the easiest debut season for the former Sporting Lisbon man. After a dry spell that saw him go ten games without a goal from open play earlier in the year, Gyokeres has exploded back into form just as the trophies are being handed out. With five goals in his last eight appearances, the Swede credited his recent purple patch to a boost in confidence from the international stage.
“To achieve World Cup qualification with Sweden and to contribute like that… it was an amazing thing,” Gyokeres said, referencing his deciding goal in the playoff win over Poland in March. “It gives me a lot of confidence at both club and country level. In football, you have to keep going, no matter what happens.”
The Saka Connection
A major factor in Gyokeres’ recent success has been the return of Bukayo Saka. The understanding between the two was on full display against Fulham, with Saka setting up one of Gyokeres’ goals before netting one himself.
“The understanding with Saka? I think it’s a very good relationship,” the striker noted with a smile. “When he’s at this level and delivers the performance we’re used to, it’s fantastic for me and all the other players to have him on the field.”
The “Budapest or Bust” Mentality
With the aggregate score tied at 1-1 after a tense first leg in Madrid—where Gyokeres himself netted the Gunners’ crucial away goal—the mission for Tuesday is simple: win and head to the final in Budapest.
“There is a very good feeling in the dressing room,” he added. “We know what is at stake. It is amazing to play this game at home with our supporters; it could be a great night. We are in this position for a reason, and we have to show that energy on the pitch.”
Gyokeres by the Numbers (Last 5 Games)
• Goals: 4 (including a brace vs. Fulham and 1 vs. Atletico Madrid)
• Assists: 1
• Shots on Target: 9
• Average Rating: 7.2
