Arsenal’s new £63.5 million signing Viktor Gyokeres made his much-anticipated home debut in Wednesday’s 3-2 pre-season loss to Villarreal — but it was 15-year-old Max Dowman who left Emirates Stadium buzzing.
Gyokeres’ First Outing: Early Promise, But Room to Grow
All eyes were on Gyokeres before kick-off as he stepped into the iconic No. 14 shirt, famously worn by Thierry Henry. However, his performance was more of a slow burn than a spark. In his 60-minute outing, the Swedish striker managed just 14 touches and two attempts on goal — one blocked, one saved.
Despite the subdued numbers, manager Mikel Arteta saw potential. “He’s been with us for about a week. But I already saw a lot of purpose, especially in the spaces he attacked,” said Arteta after the match.
Gyokeres showed glimpses of his physicality and movement, particularly in the opening minute, pulling wide to the left and delivering a low cross into the box. His runs behind the defense and positioning within the width of the posts provided a clear contrast to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, who typically drop deep or drift wide to link up play.
One notable moment came late in the first half, when he muscled past two Villarreal defenders and created a chance that lacked finishing support. In the second half, he made a sharp run into the right channel and forced a save from Luiz Junior — his most dangerous moment of the game.
“He’s not fully match-fit yet,” Arteta admitted. “He’s had just five or six training sessions with us after two months without team training. Saturday [against Athletic Club] will be another step.”
Dowman Continues to Shine
While Gyokeres was finding his footing, teenage sensation Max Dowman lit up the second half once again.
Coming off the bench, the 15-year-old winger drew a penalty with a driving run — just as he did in a recent match against Newcastle in Singapore. In just 30 minutes, Dowman attempted more dribbles than Bukayo Saka managed in the entire match.
“The efficiency he shows in every attack is incredible,” Arteta praised. “He’s earning every minute he gets.”
Dowman, who has been training with the first team since he was 14, is finally eligible for Premier League minutes after turning 15. However, Arteta hinted at easing him in gradually. “He needs a break — he hasn’t had holidays yet. But once he’s back, he’ll be ready again.”
Looking Ahead
Arsenal’s focus now turns to final pre-season preparations before their Premier League opener against Manchester United. Gyokeres is expected to play again on Saturday as he builds match fitness, while fans continue to monitor Dowman’s rapid rise.
As pre-season progresses, Arsenal supporters can expect more minutes from both their marquee signing and their prodigious academy talent — two players at opposite ends of their careers, but each carrying high expectations.
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