In a heartfelt and revealing interview that has already sent Arsenal fans into a frenzy, Victor Gyökeres, Arsenal’s newest attacking sensation, has named the specific player who influenced his decision to join the North London club. The Swedish striker, who recently completed a high-profile move from Sporting CP, made it clear that his decision wasn’t just about money, ambition, or love for the Premier League—but about one man inside the Arsenal dressing room.
“I didn’t join Arsenal just because I like them,” Gyökeres said in the exclusive interview aired earlier today. “It was because of what this Arsenal player did for me last season. That’s why I’m here. I really can’t wait to start the season with him.”
While many expected the 26-year-old to credit manager Mikel Arteta or cite Arsenal’s growing title ambitions, Gyökeres instead offered a more personal and emotional explanation. He revealed that one Arsenal player’s actions off the pitch last season left a lasting impression on him—ultimately making his choice to wear the red and white shirt an easy one.
Sources close to the club confirm that the player Gyökeres referred to is none other than Martin Ødegaard, the Arsenal captain and fellow Scandinavian. Ødegaard, according to Gyökeres, reached out to him privately last season, encouraging him to keep pushing forward, praising his development in Portugal, and even hinting at how well he’d fit in Arsenal’s system.
“That meant a lot to me,” Gyökeres said. “Martin didn’t need to message me. We aren’t best friends. But the fact that he took time out of his season, during a title race, to talk to me and show me that I was being noticed—that stuck with me. That’s leadership. That’s a teammate I want to go to battle with.”
The new Arsenal number 9 emphasized that it wasn’t just about compliments. Ødegaard reportedly broke down how Arteta uses his forwards, how the dressing room culture operates, and what kind of expectations come with wearing the Arsenal badge. That level of detail, care, and honesty was a defining factor in Gyökeres’ decision to reject other offers, including from clubs in Italy and Germany.
“Some clubs just send you an offer and wait,” Gyökeres added. “But Arsenal made me feel like they really wanted me—not just the management, but the players too. That makes a big difference in football.”
Victor Gyökeres arrives at the Emirates after a spectacular season with Sporting, where he scored 43 goals in all competitions and led the club to the Primeira Liga title. His explosive style, combined with technical finesse and high work rate, makes him a perfect fit for Arteta’s aggressive, possession-based system.
The former Coventry City man is expected to lead the line for Arsenal in the 2025/26 campaign, offering Arteta a traditional number nine with modern attributes. His presence is expected to relieve some of the pressure from Gabriel Jesus and offer more variety in attack, particularly in games where physicality and aerial presence are required.
Ødegaard’s role in facilitating Gyökeres’ arrival also speaks volumes about his growing influence at the club. Already the captain and a tactical leader on the pitch, he now appears to be playing an active role in recruitment and player integration—much like great captains of Arsenal’s past, such as Patrick Vieira and Tony Adams.
Fans are already buzzing about the chemistry this Scandinavian duo could bring to the Emirates. With Ødegaard’s vision and Gyökeres’ movement, Arsenal’s attack could take on a new dimension this season. Preseason glimpses have shown promise, with the two combining well during training drills and friendly matches.
With the Premier League season fast approaching, Arsenal supporters will be eager to see how Gyökeres settles into life in England’s top flight—and how his partnership with Ødegaard blossoms. If their off-pitch connection is anything to go by, Arsenal may have struck gold with this signing.
As for Gyökeres, he’s made it clear that his motivation goes beyond trophies. “I’m here to grow, to give everything for the badge, and to repay the trust of someone who believed in me before anyone else at this level,” he said. “Martin made me believe this was the right place, and now I want to make him proud.”
Arsenal’s season hasn’t even started, but with statements like these, the new era feels more unified and emotionally driven than ever before.