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Arsenal legend urges Arteta to make formation change to get the best out of Gyokeres

Former Arsenal winger Anders Limpar has urged Mikel Arteta to consider playing Viktor Gyokeres alongside another striker, arguing that the Sweden international performs better in a two-forward system.

According to a report by Football London on Thursday, 22 October 2026, Limpar believes Arsenal could get more out of Gyokeres by changing their usual formation, which typically features one central striker supported by wingers.

Gyokeres joined Arsenal from Sporting last year to strengthen their attack but has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter, with Kai Havertz often preferred in the centre-forward position.

The Swedish striker has made 64 appearances across all competitions for the Gunners, scoring 21 goals and providing four assists.

However, his performance in Arsenal's 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich on Wednesday offered encouragement ahead of Saturday's Premier League meeting with Everton. Gyokeres combined effectively with Declan Rice, who scored Arsenal's late equaliser.

Limpar, who mentored Gyokeres during his formative years at Swedish club Brommapojkarna, believes the striker's strengths are better suited to playing alongside another forward.

"When I see Viktor playing for Sweden, he is much better because he’s playing with two up front, and he was brought up in the Swedish system, playing with two forwards," the former Arsenal winger told Betarades.

"Playing up front on his own is hard for him because it’s not his game to be a target player."

Limpar explained that Gyokeres thrives when he can run behind defenders and exploit counter-attacking opportunities rather than being expected to lead the line alone.

"He is good going forward, chasing the ball, and he’s a threat on counterattacks, so he needs a player who is a really good target so he can play off them," he added.

The former Arsenal player also suggested Gyokeres deserved consideration for a starting role, particularly with Havertz reportedly struggling in recent matches.

"If you ask me if I want him to play, then yes, I think he should play as a starter," Limpar said.

However, he acknowledged that Arteta has access to information supporters do not, including players' fitness and performances in training.

"Arteta is playing Kai Havertz at the moment because he thinks Kai Havertz is better for Arsenal at the moment, and Viktor will have to wait for his chance and take it when it comes," Limpar concluded.

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