EPL: ‘Life goes up and down’ – Sweden coach, Potter sends message to Arsenal star

Sweden manager, Graham Potter has sent out a message of encouragement to Arsenal striker, Viktor Gyokeres following the player’s challenging start to the 2026-27.

Potter emphasised that top players such as Gyokeres face heightened scrutiny when their performance declines.

The 51-year-old manager proceeded to commend Gyokeres’ recent contributions to the Swedish national team.

He further directed attention to the critics by highlighting Gyokeres’ substantial goal-scoring record, which significantly contributed to Arsenal’s Premier League championship victory in the previous season.

Potter stated via Metro, “Things happen. Things go up and down, just like life does. He’s a Premier League winner. He scored a lot of goals as a number nine for Arsenal. He was incredible in World Cup qualifying and had a great World Cup as well. Players at this level will always get criticism at some point. But there is no problem here. We love Viktor. He enjoys being here.”

Gyokeres has relinquished his position in the Gunners’ starting lineup, having featured in merely one match for the defending champions in the Premier League throughout the current season.

Additionally, he completed his first full 90-minute of the season during Arsenal’s 4-2 victory against Ipswich in the Carabao Cup competition.

Notwithstanding his inability to register goals across four matches in the 2026-27 campaign, Gyokeres has received a call up for Sweden’s forthcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.