In a turbulent summer transfer market, Newcastle United star Alexander Isak was one of the most prominent names on the cards for Premier League giants, led by Arsenal, who are looking to bolster their attacking line.
However, in an unexpected turn of events, the London club disregarded the Swedish striker despite his outstanding technical ability, opting instead to complete a deal for his compatriot Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting Lisbon's top scorer.
What are the real reasons behind this decision? Did Arsenal prioritize physical and goal-scoring security over Premier League experience?
Reason 1: Doubts about Isak's physical fitness
According to ESPN sources, Arsenal's management expressed "several doubts" about Isak's ability to handle the pressure of playing throughout the season. Despite his impressive form for Newcastle, his injury history has raised concerns among decision-makers, especially when the deal is valued at over £100 million.
According to Transfermarkt, Isak missed just nine games last season due to a toe injury, a thigh injury, and a hamstring injury, recurring injuries that have not reassured Arsenal's medical team.
The second reason: the difficulty of negotiating with Newcastle
Another crucial aspect was Newcastle's uncompromising stance on selling the player, especially to a direct title contender like Arsenal. Although the Gunners had the budget to make a formal offer, according to BBC Sport, the club's management felt the likelihood of Newcastle rejecting the deal was high, and therefore there was no point in wasting time on futile negotiations.
Alternative: Viktor Gyokeres – A relentless goal machine
In contrast, Arsenal completed the signing of Victor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon, a deal that may be less physically risky and more secure in terms of numbers. The 27-year-old Gyokeres scored 54 goals in all competitions last season, a remarkable scoring achievement that reflects his prowess in front of goal.
Statistical comparison between Isak and Gyokeres – 24/25 season
Alexander Isak has played 2,774 league minutes, compared to Gyokeres's 2,804, which are similar in terms of playing time. In terms of offensive effectiveness, Isak has scored 23 goals, while Gyokeres has the advantage with 39, reflecting his superior ability to capitalize on opportunities.
In terms of assists, Isak made 6 assists, while Gyokeres provided 7, demonstrating a balanced collective contribution from both players. As for shots per game, Isaac averaged 2.9 shots, compared to Gyokeris' 4.2, reflecting his greater offensive audacity.
In the air, Gyokeres also excelled, winning 1.1 aerial balls per game, compared to Isak's 0.8, reflecting the physical superiority of Arsenal's new striker. Gyokeres also made 1.9 key passes per game, compared to just 1.2 for Isak.
In terms of dribbling, Isak averaged 1.2 dribbles per game, compared to 1.8 for Gyokeres, demonstrating greater flexibility and a greater ability to bypass defenders. As for his overall performance, Isak received a rating of 7.30, while Gyokeris achieved an excellent rating of 8.08, confirming his overall superiority in various offensive aspects.
Although Isak is considered one of the most capable and experienced strikers in the Premier League, Gjokeres' superior numbers in most offensive indicators were decisive in the deal's outcome.
Arsenal's decision to abandon the prospect of signing Alexander Isak was not an emotional one, but rather the result of a careful analysis combining physical, economic, and technical factors. While Gjokeres may hold new surprises in the Premier League, only time will tell whether Arteta has bet on the right horse.
