Coach expresses harsh criticism towards Viktor Gyokeres for alleged unacceptable behavior during his transfer to Arsenal
In the world of football, transfers can often be a source of excitement and anticipation. However, the move of Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP to Arsenal has been met with criticism and controversy in Portugal.
The Swedish striker, who has scored an impressive 68 league goals in 66 appearances for Sporting, has been criticized for his conduct during the transfer process. According to Portuguese pundit Laurindo Filho, Gyökeres' decision to go on strike and refuse to report for preseason training was seen as damaging to his potential legacy at the club.
Filho expressed his opinions about Gyökeres' move to Arsenal in an interview with A Bola, stating that the player's lack of professionalism and character during the move will remain until a new striker arrives who can make people forget, not only in terms of goals and assists, but also through the help he will give to the club to return or continue at a high level.
This behavior has significantly impacted Gyökeres' legacy at Sporting. It is difficult to place him at the level of Sporting's immortals, such as Manuel Fernandes, who scored 260 goals in 441 appearances from 1975 to 1987.
Sporting's president Frederico Varandas also hinted at sanctions, including fines, for Gyökeres' absence, indicating that the club was prepared to uphold club discipline and market value rather than facilitate a smooth transfer.
The controversy has caused a stir among Sporting fans in Portugal, with many expressing that Gyökeres would be quickly forgotten and emphasizing that no player is above the club's interests. Time will tell if Gyökeres' actions will be forgotten by Sporting fans, particularly if the club can find an adequate replacement who can help Sporting achieve a level of success comparable to that of Manuel Fernandes.
As the dust settles on this contentious transfer, one thing is clear: the sting of losing Gyökeres will fade among Sporting fans over time, particularly if the club can find a new striker who can not only perform well on the field, but also contribute positively off the field to help Sporting return or continue at a high level.
Gyökeres' movement to Arsenal from Sporting CP in the European leagues has been marred by controversy, given the criticism over his conduct during the transfer process. His decision to go on strike and refuse preseason training is seen as potentially damaging to his potential legacy at Sporting. Moreover, his questionable actions could also affect his ability to be compared to Sporting's immortals like Manuel Fernandes, who scored 260 goals in 441 appearances.
