Gyokeres' 21-goal haul keeps Arsenal six points clear in 2026 title race

Arsenal moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League after Viktor Gyokeres scored twice in their 3-0 win over Fulham.

Arsenal surge to title lead Arsenal extended their lead at the Premier League summit to six points after securing a 3-0 victory over Fulham. The win came courtesy of two goals from Viktor Gyokeres, pushing his season tally to 21 goals in all competitions. The Gunners now sit clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. Arsenal had been urged before the campaign to sign a 20-goal-a-season striker to compete for trophies, and Gyokeres appears to have delivered that. ## Gyokeres silences early critics Gyokeres arrived at Arsenal last summer from Sporting Lisbon in a deal worth around £64 million, having netted 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Portuguese side. The striker faced doubts over his all-round contribution this season but has now fired Arsenal closer to silverware. His penalty in the Champions League semi-final midweek and brace against Fulham have silenced sceptics. The striker has been questioned for his general play but his goals in key moments could define his Arsenal career. ## Historic milestone for Gyokeres Gyokeres' opening goal against Fulham made him the first Arsenal player to reach 20 goals across all competitions in their debut season since Alexis Sanchez in 2014-15. The goal, scored in the ninth minute, marked his 20th of the campaign. It was also his first league goal and assist in the first half since joining the club. His performance has given Arsenal a psychological boost ahead of the run-in. ## Arteta praises striker's impact Mikel Arteta highlighted Gyokeres' contributions this week, particularly his display in Madrid. The manager said, "He had a great performance. I think in Madrid, especially the first half, he was really good, and today, all the minutes that he's played as well, his contribution with the goals.. Every attacking action he was involved - scored two great goals." Arteta noted the striker's positional work and timing had improved. ## Saka and Gyokeres link up Bukayo Saka returned to fitness and started his first Premier League game since March, scoring Arsenal's second and assisting Gyokeres' opener. Arteta admitted the pair "haven't played together much" due to injuries but suggested they are timing their partnership well. Saka's fitness has been crucial as Arsenal push for trophies, with Gyokeres leading the line in his absence. ## Expert backing for Gyokeres Former England striker Wayne Rooney told Match of the Day he has liked Gyokeres all season, praising his goal tally and ability to occupy defenders. Rooney said, "I think he does so well for the team. He occupies defenders and I think his goal tally has been good this season." Former Arsenal forward Paul Merson added on Sky Sports, "The best I have seen him play. He reminded me of a [Erling] Haaland." ## Questions over Gyokeres' role Despite his goals, Gyokeres has faced criticism for his overall play, including his hold-up ability and link-up work. His five Premier League goals before Saturday earned Arsenal only two points, but his performance against Fulham changed that. The striker was signed for his goal threat and ability to create space, with his powerful runs a key asset. His league tally now stands at 14 goals, moving him closer to the lowest tally from a Premier League-winning top scorer. ## Havertz absence boosts Gyokeres Kai Havertz's fitness issues have forced Gyokeres into the starting lineup more often than planned. The German has been Arteta's preferred choice but has struggled with injuries this season. Gyokeres has started most games when Arsenal faced top sides, while Havertz has been used from the bench. The striker's durability has been vital as Arsenal navigate a congested fixture list. ## Title push hinges on Gyokeres Arsenal have lost only three games with Gyokeres in the starting XI this season. With three league matches remaining, his goals and effort could be the difference in ending the club's 22-year title drought. His recent form suggests he is peaking at the right time. If Arsenal win the league, Gyokeres' £64 million signing may be justified; if not, his impact could be questioned.