Viktor Gyökeres may not have exploded onto the Premier League scene just yet, but former Scotland international Ally McCoist believes the Arsenal striker is showing a key trait that could make him a long-term success at the Emirates: resilience.
The Swedish forward joined Arsenal in the summer for a reported £55 million, with an additional £8.5 million in performance-related add-ons. Tasked with solving Arsenal’s long-standing striker dilemma, Gyökeres arrived with high expectations — especially after the Gunners narrowly missed out on the Premier League title last season due to inefficiencies in the final third.
⚽ Mixed Start, But Signs of Promise
Gyökeres made an immediate impact with a brace against Leeds United, but struggled to replicate that form in tougher fixtures against Manchester United and Liverpool. His performances have sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some questioning whether he’s ready to lead the line at a club chasing silverware.
Despite the criticism, Gyökeres has remained composed, even issuing a public statement earlier in the season to reaffirm his belief in his ability and commitment to the club.
🗣️ McCoist: “Missing Doesn’t Bother Him”
Speaking to TNT Sports, Ally McCoist — a long-time advocate for Arsenal signing a traditional centre-forward — offered a measured take on Gyökeres’ early performances.
“There’s nobody who has complained about Arsenal not having an out-and-out centre forward more than me,” McCoist admitted. “We saw him against City in Lisbon, he played really, really well.”
McCoist highlighted Gyökeres’ mental strength as a standout quality.
“What I liked about him — he probably missed two or three chances early on, and kept going and kept going. I don’t think missing, which is vitally important for a centre forward, bothers him that much.”
🧠 Why Mentality Matters
For strikers at top clubs, the ability to shake off missed chances and stay focused is often what separates the good from the great. McCoist’s praise suggests that Gyökeres possesses the psychological edge needed to thrive under pressure — a trait that could prove invaluable as Arsenal navigate a demanding season across multiple competitions.
🔮 What’s Next for Gyökeres?
With Bukayo Saka sidelined and Noni Madueke stepping up on the wing, Arsenal will be looking to Gyökeres to lead the attack with greater consistency. Manager Mikel Arteta has shown faith in the striker, and if Gyökeres can convert his chances in upcoming fixtures, he may yet silence the doubters.
For now, McCoist’s endorsement offers a reminder that success isn’t always immediate — but with the right mindset, Gyökeres could still become the striker Arsenal have long been searching for.