Arsenal coach publicly criticized Viktor Gyokeres for unacceptable behavior during his transfer
In a recent interview with Portuguese newspaper A Bola, pundit Laurindo Filho expressed his concerns about the departure of striker Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP. Filho believes that Gyökeres' conduct during his exit significantly impacted his standing in Sporting's history, preventing him from being considered in the same league as legendary player Manuel Fernandes.
Gyökeres' exit was marked by controversy, including reports of going on strike to force his transfer to Arsenal, which damaged the chances of an amicable departure and led to disciplinary action at Sporting. This has led to a mixed response from fans, with many expressing displeasure and frustration about the striker’s departure.
Banners at a friendly match read messages like "I don't cry for those who leave, I'm happy for those who stay" and "No one is above the club's interests, no matter who they are," indicating a perception that Gyökeres put personal goals ahead of club loyalty.
However, not everyone shares this view. Cristiano Ronaldo, a Sporting legend, recognized Gyökeres as a special player who made a strong impact but emphasized Sporting’s need to adapt and continue striving for success without him. Ronaldo’s comments reflect a nuanced view that, while Gyökeres was important, the club’s collective strength should prevail post-departure.
Gyökeres' on-field achievements are significant: he scored an impressive 97 goals in 102 appearances, contributed materially to Sporting’s Portuguese league and cup double, and attracted high-profile interest from clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Juventus. However, the acrimonious nature of his exit and reported tension during negotiations somewhat cloud the legacy he might leave at Sporting.
Sporting fans will likely remember Gyökeres as a talented but controversial figure in Sporting's recent history. Filho believes that the sting of losing Gyökeres will fade among fans if they can find an adequate replacement.
Manuel Fernandes, a former Sporting player, is considered an icon of the club. Fernandes scored 260 goals in 441 appearances from 1975 to 1987, including two summers in the United States. Gyökeres could have been a legendary figure at Sporting if his conduct had been different, but his lack of professionalism and character prevented him from reaching the level of greatness that Fernandes achieved at Sporting.
Viktor Gyökeres is set to move to Arsenal for an initial fee of €63.5m (£55.3m) plus €10m (£8.7m) in add-on clauses. His conduct in pushing for the move has been criticized in Portugal, with some Sporting fans perceiving a lack of respect. The new striker, if and when they arrive, could potentially help repair the damage caused by Gyökeres' departure in the eyes of Sporting fans. They could help not just in terms of goals and assists, but also through their help in returning or continuing at the club's level.
- Despite Gyökeres' impressive on-field achievements and the potential for Arsenal to restore the club's standing with a new signing, his contentious exit leaves a complex legacy within European leagues, particularly in the Portuguese league and at Sporting CP.
- The arrival of a new striker at Sporting CP could potentially help mitigate the damage caused by Gyökeres' departure, as they not only contribute to the team's performance on the field but also demonstrate the club's commitment to uphold professionalism and character, drawing a stark contrast to Gyökeres' conduct.
