Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres came under fire from Swedish media following a disappointing performance in his country’s shock 2–0 loss to Kosovo.
With Alexander Isak absent due to fitness concerns, Gyökeres was tasked with leading Sweden’s attack in Monday’s World Cup qualifier.
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Despite being involved, the striker struggled to make a real impact during 90 frustrating minutes in Pristina.
The forward managed 44 touches, including 12 inside the penalty area, but forced only one save from goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.
A Swedish outlet was particularly scathing, suggesting the striker looked physically off the pace against limited opposition.
Media Slams Gyökeres’ Sharpness
“It is noticeable that he is not in his best shape,” wrote Therese Strömberg and Linus Petersson in their match analysis.
“His touch is not quite there, and Gyökeres often lost the ball. This was too bad a performance.”
Meanwhile, Fotbollskanalen, via SI, offered a slightly softer verdict, describing him as “acceptable” in the first half but “invisible” after the break.
The criticism comes despite Gyökeres impressing physically during his time at Sporting, where manager Ruben Amorim praised his “body from God.”
Since joining Arsenal, however, the 26-year-old has looked short of rhythm after skipping pre-season to force through his move.
Mikel Arteta admitted his new striker must adapt to Arsenal’s pressing style, highlighting issues following his debut against Manchester United.
Although he opened his account with a brace against Leeds, Gyökeres still has work to do to silence his critics.
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