Jermain Defoe Explains Andrea Berta’s Role in Viktor Gyokeres’ Arsenal Struggles
Former Tottenham and England striker Jermain Defoe has pinpointed the key reason behind Viktor Gyokeres‘ underwhelming form at Arsenal — and he believes Andrea Berta bears significant responsibility.
The Swedish forward, who arrived from Sporting CP in a £64 million deal last summer, was expected to be the missing piece in Mikel Arteta’s attacking puzzle. However, after a bright start, his goalscoring has dried up.
Gyokeres’ Promising Start Turns into Struggles at Arsenal
Gyokeres burst onto the scene with three goals in his first four Premier League appearances for the Gunners. Since then, his output has been disappointing — netting just six goals in 23 appearances across all competitions.
This form has raised questions about his adaptation to the Premier League, but Defoe argues the issue runs deeper than talent or tactics.
Defoe Points to Missing Pre-Season as the Main Culprit
Speaking on Premier League Productions’ Team Talks, Defoe — a seasoned Premier League striker himself — highlighted the impact of Gyokeres missing Arsenal’s full pre-season.
He praised the competition in Arsenal’s forward line, saying: “I mean, Gabi Jesus, I love him. I’ve always liked him as a player. I like Havertz, and Gyokeres, he’s a goal scorer. It’s not happened for him this season for whatever reason. You know, he missed the pre-season. I think that’s a big factor. I think people don’t realise that when you try to hit the ground running.”
Defoe emphasized how crucial pre-season is for building fitness, sharpness, and team chemistry — something Gyokeres simply didn’t get.
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The Chaotic Summer Transfer Saga That Cost Gyokeres Pre-Season Time
Gyokeres endured a turbulent summer at Sporting CP after reportedly falling out with the club over a broken “gentleman’s agreement” to allow his departure. He refused to train with teammates, sat out for weeks, and pushed aggressively for a move.
This drama dragged on until late July, when Arsenal finally completed the deal. As a result, Gyokeres joined the squad with just weeks until the Premier League season kicked off — missing the bulk of pre-season training and friendlies.
Andrea Berta’s Role: Praise for the Deal, But Criticism for the Delay
Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta has been widely praised for his work since joining the club. However, Defoe and many observers suggest the transfer could have been wrapped up earlier.
Sporting initially demanded €70 million (£60.2m) plus €10 million (£8.6m) in add-ons. Arsenal resisted the high price, leading to prolonged negotiations with Sporting president Frederico Varandas.
The deal was eventually agreed at around £64 million (including add-ons) — only slightly below Sporting’s original ask. Had Berta secured the signing a few weeks sooner, Gyokeres might have integrated fully during pre-season and hit the ground running.
Could an Earlier Deal Have Changed Everything?
It’s impossible to know for certain, but Defoe’s analysis suggests Gyokeres’ adaptation struggles stem largely from that lack of preparation time. With a full pre-season under his belt, the prolific striker from Sporting could have been in much better shape to thrive at Arsenal.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Gyokeres can overcome this early setback and fulfill his potential in north London.
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Jermain Defoe Explains Andrea Berta’s Role in Viktor Gyokeres’ Arsenal Struggles