Football legend and renowned pundit Gary Lineker has offered crucial advice to Arsenal's new forward, Viktor Gyokeres. The former England striker believes the Swedish international must adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League to find success with the Gunners.
Lineker's Key Advice for the Arsenal Newcomer
Speaking on his podcast, The Rest Is Football, Gary Lineker pinpointed a specific Premier League star as the ideal role model for Gyokeres. He emphasised that the physicality and pace of the English top flight present a unique challenge for any newcomer. Lineker's comments come as Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal in the summer of 2024, looks to establish himself as a key figure in Mikel Arteta's attacking plans.
The BBC Match of the Day host did not hold back in his assessment. He stated that while Gyokeres possesses clear talent, he must learn from those who have already mastered the league's rigours. The advice is seen as timely, given the high expectations surrounding the striker following his move from Sporting CP.
The Premier League Star in Question
Lineker explicitly named Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland as the benchmark. He urged Gyokeres to study the Norwegian's movement, finishing, and overall adaptation to English football. Haaland's immediate and record-breaking impact since joining City is viewed as the gold standard for foreign strikers entering the Premier League.
"Look at how Erling Haaland adapted," Lineker suggested. "He came in and understood the space, the physical battles, and the need for ruthless efficiency. That's the blueprint." This comparison sets a high bar for the Arsenal forward but provides a clear path for development.
Gyokeres's Journey and the Road Ahead
Viktor Gyokeres arrived at the Emirates Stadium with a strong reputation built in Portugal and with the Swedish national team. However, the transition to the Premier League is notoriously difficult. Lineker's advice underscores a common narrative: technical skill alone is not enough; survival and success require a specific blend of physical and mental attributes.
The pressure on Gyokeres is immense, as Arsenal fans and the club's hierarchy hope he can be the consistent goal-scorer needed to mount a serious title challenge. Analysts believe that taking on board advice from legends like Lineker could be invaluable for his career progression in England.
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on how Viktor Gyokeres responds to this public counsel. Will he emulate the lessons from stars like Erling Haaland? His ability to learn and adapt may well define his Arsenal career and his legacy in the world's most watched league.
