Former Arsenal Star Calls for Major Squad Changes
William Gallas has delivered a stark assessment of Arsenal's current squad, urging manager Mikel Arteta to replace two key players this summer to maximize the potential of striker Viktor Gyokeres. The former Gunners defender believes strategic additions could transform the Swedish international's impact at the Emirates Stadium.
Gyokeres' Mixed Debut Season
Gyokeres has experienced an inconsistent first campaign in North London following his high-profile £64 million transfer from Sporting last summer. While the striker has netted 17 goals across competitions, his overall performance has drawn criticism from pundits questioning whether he possesses the quality to lead the line for a title-chasing Arsenal side.
Jamie Carragher recently argued that Arsenal require a summer upgrade at striker, reflecting broader concerns about Gyokeres' suitability for Arteta's system. Gallas acknowledges these doubts but maintains the forward can succeed if Arsenal fundamentally alter their approach to service and build-up play.
Gallas Identifies Problem Positions
The French defender specifically highlights concerns about Arsenal's left-wing options, suggesting both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have stagnated this season. Gallas expresses particular surprise at Martinelli's dramatic dip in form, with the Brazilian managing just one Premier League goal this term.
"I don't know what has happened to Gabriel Martinelli, he's just not what he was," Gallas told BoyleSports. "Leandro Trossard is a good squad player but you need something else."
Systemic Issues Limiting Gyokeres
Gallas identifies deeper tactical problems affecting Gyokeres' effectiveness, arguing Arsenal's possession-focused style prevents the striker from receiving service in dangerous areas. The former defender notes that Gyokeres consistently demands the ball in space during counter-attacks but rarely receives it, as midfielders prioritize ball retention over penetrating passes.
"When Arsenal play on the counter-attack, I think sometimes the midfielders have to look for Viktor Gyokeres to give him the ball at the first opportunity," Gallas explained. "Gyokeres always asks for the ball in front, in the space, but he doesn't get the ball because the midfielder wants to keep the ball. That is the style of Arsenal."
Specific Transfer Recommendations
When pressed about potential signings, Gallas expressed preference for Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola over Napoli's Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, suggesting the French winger's profile better complements Gyokeres' strengths. The former Chelsea defender emphasized that Arsenal must either adapt their system or recruit players specifically capable of providing quality service to their striker.
"When you've got a striker like Gyokeres, you need players to give him the ball to score the goals," Gallas stated. "That's why maybe some of Arsenal's style has to change, or Arsenal need to change their striker."
Recent Performances Under Scrutiny
Gyokeres' recent outings have done little to silence critics. The striker failed to add to his tally during Arsenal's Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City before the international break. While he scored in Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton, his effort couldn't prevent a shocking 2-1 defeat that eliminated Arsenal from the competition.
Arsenal now face Gyokeres' former club Sporting in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night, providing another high-pressure opportunity for the striker to demonstrate his value. Gallas' comments highlight the growing scrutiny surrounding both individual performances and systemic issues as Arsenal pursue success on multiple fronts.
