According to a report by Football London on Friday, October 16, 2026, Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has revealed that Viktor Gyokeres is among the players at the club who take defeat particularly seriously, highlighting the Swedish striker’s competitive character under manager Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal have developed a strong winning mentality under Arteta, a culture that helped the club secure the Premier League title in the 2025/26 season. Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhaes and Bukayo Saka are among the players whose determination and desire to win stand out within the squad.

However, Calafiori offered a different name when discussing teammates who find losing difficult to accept. The Italian defender included himself among the club’s most competitive players before pointing to Gyokeres as another footballer who shares that mentality.

Gyokeres arrived at Arsenal from Sporting CP in 2025 for £55 million, with additional bonuses attached to the deal. He made a notable contribution during his first season, scoring more than 20 goals across all competitions and helping the club enjoy a successful campaign.

His situation has become more complicated this season, as inconsistent performances have attracted mixed reactions. Kai Havertz has moved ahead of the Swedish international in Arteta’s selection, leaving Gyokeres with fewer opportunities to start.

The striker featured in Arsenal’s starting lineup against Ipswich Town, Napoli and Lille but failed to score in any of those matches. Although the Gunners secured victories in all three games, Gyokeres was unable to add to his personal goal tally.

During an interview published on Arsenal’s official website, Calafiori was asked about the teammates who dislike losing the most. He acknowledged his own competitive nature before identifying Gyokeres as another player who fits that description.

“That’s not an easy one! I think I’m on that list, but for sure there are a couple worse than me as well. I think maybe Viktor Gyokeres as well. I’ll say him,” Calafiori explained.

Gyokeres has established an impressive record in recent seasons, winning a league title in each of his previous three campaigns. Two of those championships came during his time at Sporting CP, while the other was secured with Arsenal.

Nevertheless, his previous achievements have not guaranteed him a regular starting position in Arteta’s current squad. The forward must make the most of his playing opportunities and demonstrate that he deserves to lead Arsenal’s attack.

As competition for places intensifies, Gyokeres will need to deliver more consistent displays and find the net regularly to strengthen his position at the Emirates Stadium. His performances in the coming months could prove important in determining his role in Arteta’s plans and his long-term future with the club.