09-Jan-2026 (#34)

The Ghost in the Machine: Where is Viktor Gyokeres?

We all saw the Liverpool game, and if you were watching closely, you might have noticed our big summer signing Gyökeres was… well, a bit invisible. Eight touches in 64 minutes? It’s a stark reminder that even with all the intricate build-up play and those promising pull-back situations we’re trying to master, the final connection to our striker just isn't clicking.

It’s easy to point fingers, and Mikel Arteta himself has hinted that sometimes the final pass isn't quite sharp enough. But when your main man up front is registering so few touches, it really makes you question the supply line. Are we getting the ball into the right areas for him? Is he making the right movements to receive it? It feels like we're getting into those prime attacking positions, the ones that should lead to goals, but the final piece of the puzzle is just… missing. And when you're paying a premium for a striker, you expect him to be at the heart of those chances, not just a spectator on the pitch. We'll be keeping a close eye on how this connection develops, because right now, it's a bit of a mystery.

As things have been slow with Gyökeres integration, Arteta has a decision to make on whom to start with Jesus recovering from injury and being available to start, and also Merino impressing when paired with Eze earlier this season. Will be interesting to see who he opts to start against Portsmouth in the FA Cup 3rd game this weekend.

Related reads:

Arsenal's cutback problem explained: Why Gunners' attack is faltering - CBS Sports

Arsenal are successively executing one of the most dangerous attacking moves in soccer more than any other team, but with little to show for it

Viktor Gyokeres needs to do more to keep hold of Arsenal place as Gabriel Jesus returns - The Radar

Are Viktor Gyokeress struggles down to poor performances or poor service? The Radar column examines the Arsenal strikers tough start in the Premier League; watch Everton vs Arsenal live on Sky Sports from 7.45pm on Saturday; kick-off 8pm

Saka Signs! The Future is Bright (and Red!)

Now, let's talk about the news that's got us all buzzing: Bukayo Saka has officially committed his future to Arsenal! This isn't just any contract extension; we're talking about a deal that reportedly keeps our star boy with us until 2031.

When he signed his previous deal back in 2023, Bukayo was just 21. Now, this new agreement ties him down through what could be the absolute peak of his career, from his mid-twenties to nearly thirty. This feels like more than just securing a player; it feels like the club is signalling a real shift, a new era where Bukayo isn't just "our star boy" but the leader, the winner we all know he can be.

Think about it. He was an unused sub the last time we lifted a trophy. With the way things are shaping up this season, and with this incredible security for his club future, this could genuinely be the year he gets his hands on the major silverware we've all been craving. It's a massive statement of intent from the club, and a huge boost of confidence for all of us. The future is looking incredibly exciting, and it's firmly rooted at the Emirates with Bukayo leading the charge!

Related reads:

Report: Saka agrees new long-term contract at Arsenal

According to The Athletic, Bukayo Saka has agreed a new five-year contract with Arsenal. The long-mooted deal will keep the England international at the Emirates until 2031, by which point he’ll be 29. While negotiations have been protracted, there’s never really been any doubt over Saka’s commitment to the club; both he and Mikel Arteta […]

Bukayo Saka agrees new five-year Arsenal contract with big wage increase

Bukayo Saka has agreed a new five-year contract at Arsenal that will make him one of the highest-paid players in the club’s history

Mikel Arteta ‘would love’ Saka to follow Saliba in signing new Arsenal contract

Mikel Arteta said of the prospect of Bukayo Saka following William Saliba in agreeing a new contract: ‘Everyone knows how important Bukayo is for us’