Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal will assess Viktor Gyökeres’ fitness ahead of this weekend’s pre-season clash with Tottenham Hotspur. The €73.5m signing is yet to complete a training session since winning the league title with Sporting Lisbon, and his status remains uncertain.
“I think he hasn’t had a single training session with the team since the last game with Sporting when they became champions,” Arteta said in his press conference. “So we will assess him tomorrow.”
Gyökeres cleared medically, but fitness levels still under review
The Swedish international has completed all medical protocols and officially joined Arsenal earlier this week. However, Arteta emphasized the importance of getting him up to speed before rushing him into action even in a high-profile North London derby.
“He’s done all the medicals, everything is looking good,” Arteta added. “But to get him up to speed with the right levels of fitness is very important. We’re not going to stop him, we want him with us as quick as possible but we’ll have to assess and the medical team will do that.”
Arteta focused on physical readiness before debut
While fans are eager to see Gyökeres make his first appearance in red and white, Arteta made it clear that Arsenal won’t take risks with a player expected to lead the line this season. Getting him fully fit is the priority especially with a full Premier League and Champions League campaign ahead.
Still, Gyökeres could feature in some capacity if Friday’s assessment goes well. With Tottenham next on the schedule, a brief cameo could be on the table, depending on how the forward responds to training intensity and travel recovery.
Author Opinion
Gyökeres is in the building, the paperwork is done, and the No. 14 shirt is waiting — but Arsenal are playing the long game. Whether or not he features against Spurs, the club’s new €100m striker is nearly ready. And when he does step on the pitch, expect him to make it count.
