Viktor Gyokeres Reveals Major Arsenal Fitness Boost Amid Julian Alvarez Links

Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres has revealed he feels significantly better physically ahead of his second Premier League campaign, following a full pre-season. Meanwhile, the Gunners continue to be linked with a potential move for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez amid ongoing summer transfer speculation.

Pre-Season Fitness Boost for the Swedish International

Viktor Gyokeres has spoken candidly about his physical condition after getting a full pre-season under his belt. The Sweden international joined Arsenal from Sporting CP last summer but endured a disjointed start to life in north London. A prolonged transfer saga meant he arrived short of match sharpness, limiting him to just three pre-season friendlies 12 months ago.

According to reports from the London Evening Standard, this summer has painted a vastly different picture. Gyokeres has featured against Girona, Real Betis, and Borussia Dortmund, logging 78 minutes in the Emirates Cup loss to Dortmund. He also opened his account for the summer by converting a penalty after Christos Tzolis was fouled.

Photo: inkl.com

“I feel much, much better than probably last pre-season,” Gyokeres told reporters following the Dortmund fixture. “I’ve had more weeks now and it feels very, very good physically.”

Reflecting on his return to the Emirates Stadium pitch, Gyokeres admitted that while the result stung for the reigning Premier League champions, the overall experience of the atmosphere was welcome. “It was amazing to be back and to feel the atmosphere and see the fans again, but of course we wanted a result as well,” he noted. “I think we’re in a good stage, everyone is coming back now from the World Cup, so I’m sure we’re going to be ready for everything that comes.”

Fantasy & Market Impact

Transfer Rumors and the Julian Alvarez Link

Even as Gyokeres prepares for upcoming friendlies—including a fixture against Como—transfer speculation refuses to quiet down. The London Evening Standard reports that Arsenal continue to be linked with a summer exit route or a high-profile shake-up involving Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez.

Photo: newsbreak.com

The Gunners have reportedly eyed alternative attacking reinforcements, including an initial failed pursuit of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, keeping the spotlight firmly on Alvarez. Social media circles have buzzed with unverified suggestions that the Argentine forward has agreed personal terms with the north London club.

However, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has firmly poured cold water on those claims. Addressing the media, the Atleti boss insisted that his star forward is simply not for sale.

“The situation is very clear,” Simeone told reporters. “The club took a decision which Miguel Angel explained well. We are very happy with Julian. From the sporting side of things, we will help him keep growing and improving so that he can give us what he has given us over these two years at the club so far, which was a mountain of things.”

Tactical Integration and Squad Ambitions

Beyond individual fitness updates, Gyokeres has been quick to praise Arsenal’s aggressive recruitment strategy and underlying mentality. Following the club’s high-profile acquisition of midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, the Swedish striker insists the squad possesses “more hunger” to defend their Premier League crown this term.

Metric / Event	Last Summer (2025)	This Summer (2026)
Pre-Season Friendlies Played	3 matches (limited sharpness)	Girona, Real Betis, Borussia Dortmund (and Como)
Preparation Status	Prolonged transfer saga / missed training	Full pre-season following World Cup break
Team Status	New arrival integrating into system	Defending Premier League champions

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