Arteta Fires Back at Rooney Over Explosive Gyokeres Remarks
Mikel Arteta has addressed Wayne Rooney's commendation of Arsenal forward Viktor Gyökeres, expressing his appreciation that the new acquisition is being evaluated on his complete team performance rather than solely on his goal tally.
Gyökeres has found the net six times in 14 matches across all tournaments, with four of those efforts coming in Premier League action, though he experienced a goalless stretch of nine fixtures that included barren spells while representing Sweden.
A rapid brace against Atlético Madrid helped restore his scoring form, but his comprehensive combination play with Arsenal's midfield and attacking units has been impressive, along with his eagerness to exploit space and make runs behind the defense. Gyökeres's physical presence has also troubled center-backs, bringing a fresh dimension to Arsenal's offensive approach compared to Kai Havertz's contributions in 2024–25.
Rooney commented "Arsenal have been desperately needing a striker for several years now and he's arrived and his effort, his drive, his ability to hold the ball and naturally finding the net a few times as well," when explaining his inclusion of Gyökeres among his top three performers of the campaign thus far, and Arteta informed journalists on Friday that he welcomed such evaluation.
"I'm truly pleased that this comes from someone like Wayne, given his background and the caliber of player he was," the Spanish manager stated.
"What's important is that it's not solely focused on the goals he's netted but rather his overall team contribution and the influence that Viktor brings to our squad, his dedication, how he creates opportunities for teammates, the movement he provides for us and also the level of danger he's added to the team, which is outstanding. So I'm delighted to hear such feedback."
Rooney had mentioned Gyökeres alongside Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, whose performances have sparked renewed transfer rumors given a £65 million buyout clause in his deal that becomes active in January, and Manchester United's Bryan Mbeumo—the Cameroonian has had an excellent beginning to his Old Trafford journey following a substantial summer transfer from Brentford.
Arteta Confident on Saka Contract
Arteta was also asked about contract negotiations for Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka. The Gunners have offered several first-team stars new, enhanced and extended deals over recent months, but haven't yet finalized an arrangement with the 24-year-old and his advisors despite mutual interest from both parties.
However, there's no reason for worry in Arteta's view, with the understanding that both sides are dedicated to each other sufficiently to ease his concerns.
"I favor that term, I believe it represents confidence," Arteta responded when questioned if that described his feelings about the matter. "What Bukayo has communicated to me and the club, along with Emeka (Obasi, Saka's representative) as well, is their desire to remain here. I think it's a very positive and strong partnership.
"The path he has taken at the club and what he has developed into is something we wish to preserve. I believe that is something that will create a lasting impact at this football club and he must embrace that responsibility."
He continued: "What I'm completely certain of is that he wishes to stay with us, that he's extremely content and that he's in the environment where he wants to remain and accomplish everything we aim to achieve collectively. And then regarding when that occurs and how it unfolds, I entrust that to Andrea [Berta] and the club to resolve."