Viktor Djoeker may leave Arsenal if he decides to do so, with the club not standing in the way of a potential transfer despite the forward joining just last summer.
Djoeker made a splash in North London after his move from Sporting for a hefty £65.3 million, following a stellar spell in Portugal. However, just over a year later, significant questions about the forward's future have emerged.
Bright first season didn’t solve all issues
In his debut season, Djoeker netted 21 goals and provided three assists, playing a pivotal role in helping Arsenal clinch the Premier League title and come close to historic success in the Champions League.
Yet his goal tally isn't the only factor when assessing his performances.
Before joining Arsenal, Djoeker had minimal experience in one of Europe’s top five leagues, featuring only eight times for Brighton, all in the FA Cup and EFL Cup, before his stint at Coventry in the Championship and then to Sporting.
Concerns over combination play
Attention has been drawn to Djoeker’s passing statistics.
According to Opta data, since his move to Arsenal, the striker has made 515 passes, with just 331 of those being successful, yielding an accuracy rate of 64.27%. In contrast, Declan Rice has made 3,495 passes in the same period, with a remarkable 3,093 completing the cut—an accuracy of 88.5%.
This disparity in combinational play has raised eyebrows, although scoring remains Djoeker’s primary role, one in which he has excelled significantly.
Duelling stats also raise eyebrows
His statistics in duels have come under scrutiny as well.
From 362 ground duels, Djoeker has won just 122, equating to a disappointing 33.7% success rate. His aerial duelling figures are even worse, with just 45 wins from 142 attempts.
With his physical stature, higher efficiency in battles was expected, but the numbers so far have not confirmed that potential.
Havertz gains an edge
Kai Havertz's return from injury has further complicated matters.
The German forward offers something different that aligns better with Mikel Arteta's combinational demands, increasing competition for the centre-forward spot.
As a result, Djoeker's role within the squad has become subject to discussion, especially given the sizeable fee Arsenal shelled out for him.
Arsenal considering the situation
Reports suggest that Djoeker's representatives are looking at possible new clubs.
If the player chooses to seek a move, Arsenal are reportedly open to entertaining that scenario and will not block a potential transfer.
No confirmed agreements for his departure have yet surfaced, and speculation regarding interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia remains at the rumour level.
Thus, Djoeker's future in London hinges on his evolving role within the team and ultimately, his own decision.
