Patrick Vieira Highlights Viktor Gyökeres and John Duran as Future Arsenal Targets

Bettingexpert had the pleasure of speaking with Arsenal legend and former club captain Patrick Vieira, who shared his insights on topics surrounding his former club. Arsenal, after several challenging years, has found its footing under Mikel Arteta, who has revitalised the club. Known for his commanding presence in midfield and leadership on the field, Vieira played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s success during the late 1990s and early 2000s, captaining the team through the famous unbeaten “Invincibles” season in 2003-04.

Arteta Has Restored Energy Throughout Arsenal Football Club

Transitioning from one of the league’s best teams and a European football giant to a declining force was difficult for Arsenal fans. In Arsène Wenger’s final years, fans grew disconnected as Arsenal struggled to compete domestically and in European competitions, a struggle that continued into Unai Emery’s tenure. Now, under Mikel Arteta’s leadership, the club is revitalised, and Vieira is thrilled with the energy Arteta has brought back.

“I’m delighted that Mikel can work with peace of mind and has the opportunity to make a long-term commitment,” Vieira said. “What’s really interesting is that he’s brought energy back to all areas of the club. The players give the impression they’re giving everything for their club and coach, and that’s an essential factor. There’s a specific culture in Arsenal’s play that needs to be respected, and Mikel seems capable of restoring it.”

Arsenal Must Earn the Right to Get Referee Calls

There is a section of Arsenal fans, who have a known and heavy online presence that have let it be known they are under the impression that a number of important decisions taken this season have gone against the team. Is this just a coincidence, or is there more to it than that? Vieira is of the belief that if Arsenal want to benefit from referee’s decisions, they have to earn the right to do so

“If you want to benefit more from referee decisions, you need experience; it doesn’t happen overnight. Clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool have built that over the years. Arsenal is on the same path, but with a few years less in terms of progression. That experience will come in time,” he stated.

Viktor Gyökeres Could Make It Easier for Arsenal to Win Games

With 16 goals and 4 assists in 15 games this season, Viktor Gyökeres is a top target for clubs across Europe, including Arsenal. Vieira believes Arsenal would benefit from a true number nine, particularly after watching title rivals Manchester City thrive with Erling Haaland.

“The question is whether Arsenal can reach their goals with a genuine goalscorer or a false number nine. Havertz has performed well since the season’s start and has the potential to fill that role. But, as Manchester City has shown, having a pure striker like Haaland makes winning games easier.”

Duran Is the Right Player for Arsenal

John Duran is also said to be on Arsenal’s radar, though signing him would require a significant offer after the young striker recently signed a new deal with Villa. Vieira was particularly impressed with Duran’s recent Champions League performance, where he scored the winner against Bayern Munich.

“I loved his performance against Bayern Munich,” Vieira said. “He’s the right player for Arsenal—quick, unselfish, solid in the air, technically skilled, and intelligent in his movement.”

Arsenal Must Not Rush Ethan Nwaneri’s Development

There continues to be a number of Arsenal fans hoping that Ethan Nwaneri will get his chance, especially with the current injury crisis at the club. As things stand the young academy graduate has a host of first team players in his way. Yet, when given the chance Nwaneri has impressed. Is he ready for more minutes in the first team? 

“With Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling, and Kai Havertz, competition is enormous,” Vieira noted. “He’s only 17, so we shouldn’t rush things. He has great potential, and I’m confident Mikel Arteta will gradually give him his chance. Just because the squad is stretched doesn’t mean Nwaneri should suddenly play every three days.”

“Technically, he’s strong—good at dribbling, creative, and keen to get forward. He’s also skilled in tight areas,” he added.

Norwich City Move Is the Right One for Jack Wilshere

Jack Wilshere recently joined Norwich as a first-team coach, and Vieira believes moving from Arsenal’s academy to Norwich is a fantastic opportunity for Wilshere to advance his coaching career.

“Jack is only 32, but this is a fantastic chance for him,” Vieira remarked. “Starting his coaching career at an ambitious Championship club like Norwich is a great step. With his character, passion, and love for the game, he has every chance of succeeding.”