Viktor Gyökeres showed exactly why many fans rate him highly after Arsenal defeated Atlético Madrid 1:0 to qualify for the Champions League final.
Softfootball believes it is surprising that some fans still claim Kai Havertz should start ahead of Gyökeres. Against Atletico, Gyökeres gave Arsenal the type of performance that reminded many fans of Didier Drogba during Chelsea FC’s 2012 Champions League-winning campaign.
Even without scoring, Gyökeres kept fighting throughout the match. He constantly asked for the ball despite Atletico defenders aggressively pressing and challenging him physically.
He was a one-man problem for Atletico’s defense.
Whenever long balls came forward, he was isolated alone up front, battling defenders and trying to hold play together for Arsenal. Softfootball believes Havertz may struggle in those same physical situations because Gyökeres brought strength, aggression, and presence.
Back in 2012, Chelsea relied heavily on Drogba in difficult matches. In the Champions League final against FC Bayern Munich, Drogba delivered in the key moment with his famous header from Juan Mata’s corner kick.
Gyökeres gave Arsenal that same feeling against Atletico, not just about scoring goals, but about carrying the attack and making the team feel dangerous.
Although he missed chances, his overall impact was massive. Alongside Declan Rice, who also impressed again, Gyökeres helped Arsenal qualify through determination, fight, and presence at the highest level.
