Arsenal could be facing a major setback next year, with summer signing Viktor Gyökeres potentially unavailable for several crucial fixtures.

The Swedish striker, who joined the Gunners from Sporting CP for around £55 million, has already shown flashes of brilliance in north London. While he struggled against Manchester United and Liverpool, his two-goal display versus Leeds United reminded fans why Mikel Arteta made him the centerpiece of his attacking rebuild.

But off the pitch, trouble is looming. Reports from Sweden suggest that Gyökeres may have to appear in court as a witness in a high-profile defamation case. His agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, has filed a lawsuit against two local media outlets accused of spreading damaging allegations linking his agency to organized crime. Although Gyökeres himself faces no charges, he has agreed to testify if required, meaning his involvement could clash with Arsenal’s domestic and European schedule.

📊 Gyökeres’ 2025/26 Premier League Stats so far

Minutes: 240

Goals: 2

Assists: 0

Shots per game: 1

Key passes: 0.7

Dribbles: 0.3

Average rating: 7.03

The timing couldn’t be worse for Arsenal. With over £260 million spent on reinforcements including Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, and Piero Hincapié, Arteta has built a squad designed to finally end the Gunners’ wait for a Premier League title. Missing their main striker, however, could prove costly.

Arsenal are set to resume action after the September international break with a home clash against Nottingham Forest, followed by their Champions League opener away at Athletic Club. With Gyökeres’ availability now uncertain, Arteta may have to rethink his attacking plans just as the season heats up.

⚠️ One thing is clear: while Gyökeres is not on trial, the court case in Sweden could still derail Arsenal’s momentum at a critical point in the campaign.