Viktor Gyokeres will be desperate for Arsenal star to change his ways, it’s ‘never’ going to work

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Viktor Gyokeres earned his first start for Arsenal as the Gunners returned to North London for the latter stages of pre-season.

There is one more pre-season test remaining for Mikel Arteta’s side before the opening day fixture against Manchester United. 

Before the Gunners head to Old Trafford, Arteta will be desperate to see his team return to winning ways.

Arsenal lost 3-2 to Villarreal on their return to the Emirates, a match that saw Gyokeres make his first start in red and white. 

• READ MORE: Arsenal icon has a bizarre nickname for Martin Zubimendi after watching him vs Villarreal

Gabriel Martinelli needs to change his approach

Gyokeres only had two touches on his debut against Tottenham, something he was eager to put right against Villarreal.

In the striker’s defence, he was getting into some top positions, but those around him almost didn’t know how to play to his strengths.

Time and time again, the Swede was seen running into space, but his teammates couldn’t give him the service he demanded, with one of the worst at it being Gabriel Martinelli.

Against Villarreal, journalist Tom Canton noticed what Martinelli did to deny Gyokeres the chance to be slipped in on goal.

“Martinelli is fouled running with the ball, watching the replays… his head looking at the floor as he’s running,” Canton wrote on X.

“Gyokeres was making a good run, he was never going to see soon enough.”

Canton, and many Arsenal fans have a problem with Martinelli, particularly how aimless the Brazilian’s wing play can appear to be at times. 

The 24-year-old often fails to lift his head when running, lowering his ability to pick the correct pass or take advantage of the space he gets himself into.

The friendly against Villarreal proved that Gyokeres needs better service, with Martinelli being one of those who can certainly do more to support his new teammate. 

Martinelli’s stats vs Villarreal show Arsenal’s problem 

Pressure is on Martinelli to really step up after a poor two seasons at Arsenal. 

The Brazil international is sometimes mesmeric, but such only comes in flashes, with his consistency a real problem. 

Against Villarreal, Arteta was shown what could happen to Gyokeres if Martinelli doesn’t improve, with the winger’s numbers portraying the fragile sides of his game.

Arteta replaced Martinelli with Noni Madueke late into the second half, with the summer signing equalling the Brazilian’s successful crosses tally in a brief 14-minute cameo.

Arsenal need Martinelli to return to his best now more than ever, with more than just the left side being impacted.