Rio Ferdinand expressed disappointment in Viktor Gyokeres’ performance during Sporting Lisbon’s heavy 5-1 defeat to Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League.
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The Sweden international, who had gained attention for a hat-trick against Manchester City earlier in the competition, struggled to make an impact against Arsenal’s imposing defensive duo of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Gyokeres, touted as a potential Premier League signing for clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Arsenal, faced a daunting challenge that highlighted the limitations of his game. Arsenal defenders neutralized his attacking threat, and Gabriel even mimicked Gyokeres’ signature goal celebration after a commanding display.
Ferdinand’s Assessment
Speaking on TNT Sport, Rio Ferdinand cautioned against overestimating Gyokeres’ readiness for the physical demands of the Premier League.
“His strengths played into the hands of Arsenal’s centre-backs. In the Premier League, he’d face big, strong defenders like Saliba and Gabriel week in, week out,” Ferdinand observed.
Ferdinand noted that Gyokeres only found some success after Gabriel was substituted, and Jakub Kiwior—less imposing than his predecessor—entered the fray. Despite that brief improvement, Ferdinand remained skeptical:
“Have I seen enough to say he can come to the Premier League and be a success? I’m not saying he wouldn’t, but we’d need to see more than what we saw today.”
Keown’s Perspective
Fellow pundit Martin Keown echoed Ferdinand’s sentiments, commending Arsenal’s defense for rising to the challenge.
“Credit to the Arsenal boys. They’re quick, strong, and mobile. Gabriel and Saliba handled everything Gyokeres threw at them,” Keown said.
Keown also highlighted Gyokeres’ hesitance against Gabriel, suggesting the striker lacked confidence in taking on the physical defender.
Future Implications
Gyokeres’ £65 million release clause and growing reputation had made him a target for several Premier League clubs. However, his performance against Arsenal raises questions about whether he can thrive in England’s top flight.
While his goal-scoring exploits have dazzled in other matches, the test against Arsenal demonstrated the level of consistency and adaptability he will need to succeed at the next level.
