Armand Traore, former Arsenal left-back, has delivered a scathing assessment of current Gunners striker Viktor Gyokeres, casting serious doubt on the Sweden international’s impact at the Emirates Stadium. Despite Gyokeres' tally of 21 goals across all competitions last season, which contributed to Arsenal’s Premier League triumph and Champions League final appearance, Traore remains unconvinced by the forward’s overall threat.
Gyokeres, who previously dazzled at Sporting Lisbon with his prolific scoring, has struggled to translate that form consistently in the Premier League. Traore, who admittedly never reached the heights expected during his time at Arsenal, did not mince words when asked about defending against Gyokeres. Speaking to The Sun, he claimed, “Gyokeres, I just don’t get that killer instinct that some of these guys had.”
Drawing stark comparisons with legendary strikers, Traore highlighted the lack of a commanding presence from Gyokeres. “I played against Drogba many times. My lord. He had such an aura. It stinks of, ‘I’m a leader’. I don’t get that with Gyokeres or Havertz.” He made clear his confidence in neutralising the Sweden forward, adding, “If I was to play against Gyokeres I wouldn’t be worried. I was a very, very fast player. He could push it past me but there is no way he is getting past.”
The former defender further underscored the gulf in class between Gyokeres and iconic figures like Thierry Henry, stating, “Think of Thierry Henry and Gyokeres, it’s day and night. Try to play against Thierry, either way he goes it’s a problem. These players are a problem. Speed kills and I don’t see that Gyokeres is very quick.”
Gyokeres’ mixed fortunes at Arsenal continue to fuel debate over his future. Reports indicate interest from Serie A and the Saudi Pro League as he contemplates his next move, especially with Kai Havertz seemingly preferred by Mikel Arteta as the first-choice striker this season. However, the lack of attacking depth suggests Gyokeres will still be called upon for opportunities on the pitch.
The question remains whether Gyokeres can silence critics like Traore and establish himself as a genuine force in the Premier League. For now, the former Arsenal defender’s blunt verdict casts a long shadow over the Sweden international’s credentials at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
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