Viktor Gyokeres says reaching 20 goals for Arsenal is a positive milestone, but insists the decisive games are still ahead this month.
Viktor Gyokeres says Arsenal’s “most important” moments are still to come after reaching the 20-goal mark in his first season at the club.
The striker scored twice in Saturday’s 3-0 win over Fulham, helping Mikel Arteta’s side move six points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Arsenal now turn their attention to Tuesday night’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid, with the tie level after the 1-1 draw in Spain.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference before the Atletico game, Gyokeres said he was pleased to reach a personal milestone, but made clear that Arsenal’s season will be judged by what happens next.
“Of course you want to score goals, so I think to reach that is of course a good thing,” Gyokeres said. “But the most important things are coming this month. We’ll have to do our job and see where it gets us this month.”
That response summed up the balance Arsenal need from Gyokeres now. His individual form has improved at a crucial time, but the striker knows the bigger prizes remain unresolved.
Arsenal are still fighting for the Premier League title and a place in the Champions League final. For Gyokeres, that means the final weeks of the campaign carry far more weight than any personal target.
Asked about the trophies still available, he said Arsenal had earned the right to be in this position.
“We are in this position now for a reason,” he said. “We’ve done very well throughout the season, but of course now with these games that are coming, it’s when it all comes down to and everything matters to do well in these games to get us over the line.
“It’s been incredible so far what we’ve done, but we have to do it now.”
Gyokeres’ timing could prove important. His Fulham display was one of his most complete performances of the season, with two goals and an assist for Bukayo Saka. He also scored Arsenal’s goal from the penalty spot in the first leg against Atletico, giving Arteta’s side a platform before the return fixture at the Emirates.
The Sweden international said the Fulham game felt positive because of how involved he was in Arsenal’s attacking play.
“It felt good,” he said. “I think I was involved a lot and got a lot of touches on the ball. Of course, I think that helps in performances that you’re involved and there was that kind of game. I think we played very good football.”
Arsenal will need that influence again against Atletico. Diego Simeone’s side made the first leg uncomfortable for long spells, and Gyokeres accepted the return game will bring another difficult test.
“I think it’s going to be a tough game like it was in Madrid,” he said. “Atletico have a great team. They have a lot of quality attacking and we know that they’re dangerous there. So of course we have to do that part well and then do what we are good at when we have the ball.”
With Arsenal 90 minutes away from a Champions League final, Gyokeres said the players are excited by the opportunity in front of them.
“It’s a good feeling in the dressing room,” he said. “I think we’re all very excited with every game that’s coming now. It’s just to prepare and to show that energy on the pitch.”
Gyokeres has reached an important personal marker, but his message was clear. The numbers matter, but the next few games will define Arsenal’s season.