Ian Wright, a legendary Arsenal player, has revealed that he sent a message of encouragement to new signing Viktor Gyokeres after his debut against Manchester United in the Premier League opener. Wright, who was part of the Arsenal set up from 1991 to 1998, urged the Swedish international to work hard and maintain faith in himself as he navigates the challenge of playing with world-class teammates.
Gyokeres, who recently joined Arsenal from Sporting CP for a reported €63 million, took to the pitch on Sunday alongside the likes of Saka, Odegaard, and Declan Rice. Wright, who scored 185 goals and provided 31 assists in 288 games for Arsenal, understands the pressure of performing at the highest level and offered words of wisdom to the young Swede.
“I’ve got a kind of dialogue with literally every player in that dressing room,” Wright said, as quoted by TBR Football. “I could send a message, they’ll send a message back, and I’ve already sent my messages to Viktor and he’s already sent them back to me.” Wright emphasized the importance of self-belief, telling Gyokeres, “You’re mirroring me, so all you’ve got to do now is continue to have the faith in yourself that got you through the hard times.”
The Arsenal legend acknowledged that playing alongside world-class teammates can be intimidating, but encouraged Gyokeres to focus on his own abilities. “You doubt yourself because all of a sudden you’re coming into a dressing room and you’re playing with Saka and you’re playing with Odegaard, you know what I mean?” Wright said. “You’re playing with two arguably the best centre backs in the world, you’re playing with Declan Rice, one of the best midfielders in the world, Zubimendi, your level has gone somewhere else.”
As Gyokeres settles into his new role at Arsenal, Wright’s words of encouragement will undoubtedly serve as a source of motivation. With the backing of his teammates and the guidance of experienced players like Wright, Gyokeres is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the Premier League.
