Former Barcelona and Uruguay star Luis Suarez has shared a blunt assessment of Arsenal’s new signing, Viktor Gyokeres, suggesting the Swedish striker still has a long way to go before he can truly be considered among the elite.
Gyokeres, 27, joined Arsenal from Portuguese side Sporting CP during the summer transfer window in a deal that generated excitement among the Gunners’ fan base.
Since arriving in North London, the forward has scored two goals under manager Mikel Arteta, showing glimpses of the qualities that made him one of the most prolific strikers in Europe last season.
Despite his promising start, Suarez, who currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, insists that Gyokeres is not yet at the required standard to consistently perform at the very highest level of the Premier League.
Speaking during a live chat with a streamer, the former Liverpool and Atletico Madrid striker was quoted by TouchlineX as saying:
“He still lacks the level. He’s good, but I think he still lacks the level… He’ll get there in a year or two.”
Suarez’s comments reflect a belief that while Gyokeres has talent, he still needs time to adapt to the demands and intensity of English football, which is widely regarded as one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will be counting on their new striker to sharpen his finishing touch and provide much-needed firepower as they aim to mount a serious Premier League title challenge this season. Gyokeres will have another opportunity to impress after the international break when the Gunners travel to face Nottingham Forest.
With Arsenal seeking to end a two-decade wait for the league title, the Swedish international’s ability to quickly step up could prove crucial in Arteta’s long-term project.
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