Viktor Gyökeres: Why the Arsenal Striker Struggled to Make His Mark at Brighton Early in His Career
28 OCT 2025 10:20 | VIEWS: 58
PHOTO: Samuel Arkwright, Unsplash
Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish striker who has become a sensation, was once part of Brighton's youth setup. However, the "Seagulls" sold him to Coventry for just £1 million in 2021. Now, Gyökeres is valued at £63.5 million and plays for Arsenal, having recently won the "Gerd Müller" trophy for the most goals scored in 2025.
Although Gyökeres couldn't establish himself in Brighton's first team, he showed potential in the club's youth ranks. Known for his dynamic runs down the left wing, he initially played as a winger but gradually honed his skills as a central striker. His transfer to Coventry proved pivotal for his development, where he cemented his role as a key forward and began scoring consistently.
Despite his successes at Arsenal and the recognition he receives, Gyökeres holds fond memories of his time at Brighton. Interestingly, despite his brief stint with the club, he still maintains connections with his former teammates.
From Brighton's perspective, letting Gyökeres go might seem like a missed opportunity, but the club views it as a natural progression for a young talent. As club CEO Paul Barber states, "It's always gratifying to see a young talent you've discovered and nurtured achieve great success."
Analysis: Gyökeres' story is a testament to how the right environment and perseverance can transform a footballer's career. While Brighton missed out on capitalizing on his talent, the club remains a leader in identifying and developing young players.
SOURCE: Sky Sports