Traore Doubts Viktor Gyokeres Has the Pace to Lead Arsenal’s Attack
Traore has questioned whether Viktor Gyokeres has the authority and pace required of a leading striker at the highest level, arguing that the Arsenal forward would not concern him in a direct defensive contest.
Why the debate matters for Arsenal
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Viktor Gyokeres |
| Age | 28 |
| Goals last season | 21 in all competitions |
| Arsenal achievement | Premier League title |
Gyokeres contributed 21 goals across all competitions in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign, yet scrutiny of his displays has continued. The forward is competing with Kai Havertz for a place in Mikel Arteta’s starting side as the club prepare to resume domestic fixtures.
Traore believes neither Gyokeres nor Havertz carries the intimidating presence associated with the Premier League’s outstanding centre-forwards of earlier eras. He used Didier Drogba as the clearest example, recalling the former Chelsea striker’s physical and psychological impact on opposing defenders.
In Traore’s view, Drogba projected leadership before the ball had even been played, whereas he has not seen that same ruthless edge from either Arsenal attacker. He said he would have no particular concern about facing Gyokeres.
Henry comparison underlines Traore’s criticism
Traore also challenged Gyokeres’ ability to beat elite defenders with raw speed. Referring to his own pace as a player, he said Gyokeres might knock the ball beyond him but would not get away from him.
Thierry Henry was presented as the standard by which Traore measures truly dangerous forwards. He argued that Henry could create problems whichever direction he moved, with his acceleration making him exceptionally difficult to contain. Gyokeres, Traore said, does not possess comparable quickness.
Selection and transfer questions remain
Gyokeres has the chance to answer those doubts when Arsenal return to league action, with his battle with Havertz for a starting role still ongoing. His longer-term future is also unsettled ahead of the next transfer window, with clubs in Serie A and the Saudi Pro League retaining an interest.
