The real reason behind Viktor Gyokeres’ decision to turn down Manchester United has emerged, along with how Ruben Amorim’s actions left the striker’s agent frustrated and what Gyokeres genuinely feels about the situation.

Manchester United welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford in a clash rich with storylines, none bigger than the reunion between United manager Ruben Amorim and Arsenal’s new star striker Viktor Gyokeres.

The two forged a devastating partnership at Sporting Lisbon, where Gyokeres signed off with a Champions League hat-trick against Manchester City in what turned out to be Amorim’s final home game in charge. At the time, many expected the striker to follow his coach to Old Trafford.

Although United were strongly interested, Gyokeres made it clear his heart was set on Arsenal. Explaining his decision, he said:
“There were other clubs, of course, but this wasn’t a hard choice. I chose Arsenal. When I played against them last season in the Champions League, I could feel how strong they were and how difficult they were to face. That, along with the club’s history and massive fanbase, made the choice easy. The support I’ve already received has been amazing.”

Meanwhile, Portuguese outlet Record revealed that Gyokeres’ agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, was “hurt” by Amorim. Cetinkaya also represents Victor Lindelof, who was released by United after eight years at the club despite wanting to stay. Amorim’s decision not to renew the defender’s deal reportedly upset the agent, effectively closing the door on any Gyokeres move to Old Trafford. In the end, it hardly mattered, as the Swede was already leaning towards Arsenal, while United secured Benjamin Sesko instead.

Gyokeres first made his mark at Coventry City before thriving under Amorim at Sporting, where his rise to global prominence began. Despite admiring his former manager, he admitted he was stunned by Amorim’s sudden mid-season departure:
“It was a shock. I’d never experienced a manager leaving while things were going well, but I understood his decision.”

Amorim, on his part, addressed the speculation about Gyokeres back in April. Without naming him directly, he suggested the striker would not have chosen United without Champions League football:
“If a player only wants to join Manchester United to play Champions League, then that player won’t come here. We want players who want to represent United, not just compete in certain tournaments.”

Since arriving at Old Trafford, Amorim has stayed committed to his 3-4-3 system, even when it seemed to complicate matters, determined to replicate the success it brought him in Portugal.

Had Gyokeres joined United, he may well have thrived under his old manager’s style. Instead, the next chapter of their story begins as they face each other from opposite dugouts.