Victor Djoekersh has made a powerful statement following his loss of a starting spot at Arsenal. During the international break, the 28-year-old forward shone for Sweden, netting in all four of their matches and establishing a new Nations League record.
Djoekersh scored twice against Romania, and also found the back of the net against Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Consequently, he became the first player in the tournament's history to score in seven consecutive matches.
This scoring streak comes at a crucial time for Djoekersh. Last season, he was instrumental in helping Arsenal clinch their first league title since 2004, but this campaign has seen him displaced in the starting lineup by Kai Havertz. So far, the Swede has only made two substitute appearances in the Premier League and has yet to start a match.
Amid the lack of playing time, speculation about his potential departure has intensified. Both AC Milan and Juventus are reportedly monitoring his situation, while Arsenal may also be looking to re-enter the race for Bournemouth's Ely Junior Krupa in 2027.
Despite the chatter, Djoekersh emphasised that he wasn't considering leaving London this summer:
Of course, there were a lot of rumours. But I completed the pre-season, and everything went well. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying here was a given. I’m incredibly happy at the club.
However, the forward hasn't hidden his frustration with his lack of game time:
It’s obviously annoying, wherever you are. You always want to be on the pitch, helping the team and scoring goals.
Sometimes it’s genuinely disappointing, but I just try to do everything I can when I get the chance and focus on what I can control.
Now, Djoekersh may get his chance in the upcoming matches. Havertz sustained a hamstring injury, so manager Mikel Arteta is expected to reinstate the Swede to the starting lineup.
His scoring run for the national team serves as a timely reminder of his capabilities. As transfer talks loom, Djoekersh returns to Arsenal with four goals from the international break and a new Nations League record under his belt.
