According to a report by Metro on Saturday, October 24, 2026, former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit believes Viktor Gyokeres has been pushed down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium and faces an uncertain future at the club.

The Frenchman suggested that Arsenal’s decision to explore the possibility of signing another striker during the summer transfer window sent a clear message to the Sweden international about his standing in Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Gyokeres joined Arsenal from Sporting CP last summer after establishing himself as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Portuguese club.

The 28-year-old managed 22 goals across all competitions during his first season in English football. However, his performances did not completely convince sections of the Arsenal fanbase, while increased competition for the centre-forward position has made his situation more difficult.

Kai Havertz’s return to fitness and improved form has strengthened his position in Arteta’s attacking plans, leaving Gyokeres without a Premier League start so far this season.

Petit believes the striker’s reduced involvement has affected his confidence, with the quality and depth of Arsenal’s squad making it increasingly difficult for players to secure regular first-team opportunities.

“He’s not the priority in the pecking order,” Petit told Betfred, adding that Gyokeres appeared to have lost confidence.

The former Arsenal midfielder also pointed to the club’s pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez during the summer as an indication that the Swedish striker had not fully convinced the decision-makers at the Emirates.

Petit said the recruitment interest communicated a worrying message to Gyokeres, claiming that the forward was “not welcome anymore” at the club.

Gyokeres is not the only Arsenal attacker facing competition for a place in Arteta’s starting eleven. Petit also mentioned Eberechi Eze, suggesting that the pressure to earn regular minutes could affect players as they compete for positions in the team.

Former Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse offered a different perspective on Gyokeres’ difficulties, questioning whether his technical qualities were suited to Arsenal’s style of play.

Cisse argued that the Premier League’s physical demands and intensity could require a period of adjustment for a striker arriving from Portuguese football. He stressed that adapting to a new league might take time and encouraged Gyokeres to continue working.

However, Cisse also defended the forward’s goalscoring ability, insisting that his record should not be overlooked despite his current struggles for playing time.

With Havertz currently ahead of him in the competition for the centre-forward position, Gyokeres faces the challenge of convincing Arteta that he deserves a more prominent role as Arsenal continue their 2026-27 campaign.