Ferdinand questions whether Gyokeres is ready for physicality of Premier League

In-form Gyokeres was well marshalled by Arsenal's defensive duo Gabriel and Saliba, who kept him quiet as the Gunners thrashed Sporting 5-1 in the Champions League on Tuesday. The Swedish striker has been linked to a move to Manchester United following an outstanding start to the campaign with 24 goals and 4 assists in 20 matches, however, Tuesday's display raised questions as to whether he is ready for a move to the Premier League.

Rio Ferdinand was among the critics, as he said post-match: “His strengths played into the strengths of the two central defenders he was up against and that’s what he’d find in the Premier League week in week out. Two big strong centre halves the majority of the time. Can he deal with them? Have I seen enough to say he can come to the Premier League and be a success? I’m not saying he wouldn’t, but I’m saying you’d need to see more than what we saw today".

The former United defender added: “It wasn’t until Gabriel went off that he actually got a bit of joy against Kiwior, a player who’s not as big and not as strong. These two centre halve are the best as a partnership and they didn’t give him an ounce the whole game. He’s been crucifying teams in those areas running the channels, these guys look supremely comfortable in doing that".

Alongisde Manchester United, Arsenal have also been linked with Gyokeres throughout the summer, though speculation regarding a move to the Red Devils has been increasingly prominent since the arrival of Ruben Amorim at United. The 26-year-old has been vocal in his admiration for Amorim, stating various times that he has helped him to develop as a player, thus enhancing rumours that the pair could reunite at the theatre of dreams.

 

November 26, 2024