Published : 21 Aug 2025, 12:31 AM
Updated : 21 Aug 2026, 01:41 PM
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly decided to replace Bukayo Saka as the team's primary penalty taker with new signing Viktor Gyokeres, aiming to leverage the striker's flawless record from the spot.
The change follows the Gunners’ opening Premier League victory, a 1-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Aug 17, FourFourTwo reports.
Swedish outlet Sportbladet claims Gyokeres, who converted all 20 penalties for Sporting last season, has been assigned the role ahead of Saka and captain Martin Odegaard.
The 23-year-old winger has taken 14 penalties for Arsenal since 2021, missing only twice, against West Ham in 2023 and Real Madrid earlier this year where he attempted a Panenka against Thibaut Courtois.
Previous signings like Jorginho, a penalty expert, never displaced Saka, while Odegaard and Kai Havertz have occasionally stepped up without issue.
The North London outfit were awarded just two Premier League penalties last season, so confirmation of the new taker may take time.
