Mikel Arteta reportedly has a strategy in place to bench a previously undroppable Arsenal star following the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres.

Viktor Gyokeres’ arrival is expected to significantly reshape Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal lineup and could see a key player dropped, according to reports.

After three straight second-place finishes, Arteta finally secured a proven No.9, paying £63.5 million for the Swedish striker following his prolific 97-goal spell at Sporting CP. The former Coventry City forward offers a new attacking dimension, and fans are eager to see how the Gunners will set up for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United.

Kai Havertz, although not a natural striker, has led Arsenal’s line for the past two seasons, scoring 29 goals in 87 appearances. Many expected him to make way for Gyokeres, one of the most lethal finishers in world football. However, a report by Miguel Delaney suggests Havertz will remain a crucial figure, particularly in big matches, due to his pressing ability.

Arsenal staff are even considering a setup where Havertz moves into midfield alongside Declan Rice, offering greater physical presence — a quality captain Martin Odegaard lacks despite his creative flair. This could lead to Odegaard being benched in certain high-intensity games.

Delaney notes, “Kai Havertz’s understanding of the pressing system will still see him used a lot, especially in big games… Staff have even envisioned plans where Havertz is picked over Odegaard.”

Gyokeres, who scored in a pre-season match against Athletic Club, is expected to boost Arsenal not just with goals but by creating space for their creative players. Arteta praised his ability to occupy defenders, saying, “He pins both centre backs… he’s going to create a lot of space as well for us.”