"He Should Not Be Starting”—Jamie Carragher Urges Arteta to Drop €65m star and start "better" players After Arsenal’s Villa Win

Jamie Carragher has urged Mikel Arteta to reconsider Victor Gyökeres’ place in the Arsenal starting line-up following the club’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Aston Villa.

The former Liverpool defender delivered a firm assessment of Gyökeres’ performance, despite Arsenal’s convincing display, questioning whether the Swedish striker should continue to lead the line in the weeks ahead.

Gyökeres was named in the starting XI for the Premier League clash but endured a frustrating evening in front of goal. He failed to register on the scoresheet and was eventually replaced by Gabriel Jesus in the 77th minute, a decision that drew further attention after Arsenal’s fourth goal arrived shortly afterwards.

The 26-year-old arrived in north London during the summer amid considerable expectation, completing a £63.5 million move from Sporting Lisbon. His signing was viewed as a significant statement of intent, with hopes that his goalscoring exploits in Portugal would translate quickly to English football.

So far, however, Gyökeres has struggled to replicate that form. He has scored seven goals across all competitions this season, a return that has prompted growing discussion around his role within Arteta’s side.

Carragher questions Gyökeres’ place

Speaking on Sky Sports after the final whistle, Carragher suggested that Arsenal have stronger options available than Gyökeres at present. He argued that both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz should be considered ahead of the Swedish international, citing concerns over Gyökeres’ overall quality compared to his teammates.

Carragher stated that Gyökeres should not be starting when Arsenal can call upon players of that calibre. He added that, once Jesus regains full sharpness, the Brazilian is a superior player, presenting his view as a straightforward assessment rather than a debate.

He also addressed the wider discussion surrounding Jesus, noting that doubts have previously been raised about whether the forward is capable of leading a title-winning team. However, Carragher maintained that, in the current situation, Jesus is outperforming the striker Arsenal brought in with expectations of making the decisive difference.

Carragher went on to suggest that either Jesus or Havertz would be a better option as Arsenal’s central striker than Gyökeres, reinforcing his belief that Arteta should make a change.

Supporter concerns reflected in analysis

Carragher’s post-match comments echoed sentiments expressed by sections of the Arsenal fanbase. While Gyökeres continues to adjust to the demands of the Premier League, many supporters believe that Jesus or Havertz may offer a more effective solution in attack in the short term.

Arsenal’s depth up front has increased in recent weeks, largely due to the return of key players from injury. Both Jesus and Havertz missed the opening phase of the season after extended spells on the sidelines, limiting Arteta’s options earlier in the campaign.

Increased competition following injury returns

Gabriel Jesus’ introduction against Aston Villa proved decisive. Coming on for Gyökeres late in the second half, the Brazilian scored Arsenal’s fourth goal just one minute later. It was his first goal in over a year, marking an important milestone in his return to form and fitness.

Kai Havertz, meanwhile, was named among the substitutes but did not feature during the match. His inclusion on the bench was nonetheless a positive development for Arsenal. The German international’s availability offers Arteta greater flexibility, particularly given Havertz’s ability to contribute both in front of goal and in build-up play.

Arteta has consistently spoken highly of Havertz, underlining the importance he places on the player’s all-round contribution. Earlier this week, the Arsenal manager described Havertz as someone the team had missed significantly, highlighting the different dimension he brings to the side.

Selection decisions ahead of Bournemouth trip

Arsenal’s attention now turns to their next fixture, an away trip to Bournemouth on January 3. The Cherries enter the match on a difficult run, having failed to secure a win in their last 10 games. Arteta’s side will be keen to take advantage of that form as they look to maintain their momentum in the title race.

The match also presents another opportunity for Arteta to reassess his attacking setup. With Gyökeres, Jesus and Havertz all available, the decision over who starts at centre-forward has become increasingly significant.