Why Mikel Arteta has ruled out Viktor Gyökeres for Bayern — but offered one positive

 The Arsenal boss provides a key injury update ahead of a crucial European showdown.

Mikel Arteta has offered clarity on the fitness of Viktor Gyökeres before Arsenal host Bayern Munich in the Champions League. The Swedish striker narrowly missed the North London Derby but was at the Emirates to support his teammates, hoping he would be fit in time for the midweek clash.

Gyökeres has been a force in Europe this season, most recently scoring twice against Atlético Madrid. With Vincent Kompany’s Bayern side heading to London, Arsenal were eager to have their in-form striker available — but Arteta has now confirmed that won’t happen.

Arteta confirms Gyökeres will not play but is close to returning

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta ruled out Gyökeres for Wednesday night but insisted the striker is nearing a comeback. He also revealed that both Gyökeres and Kai Havertz are set for further assessment shortly.

“Really good, both of them,” Arteta said. “In the next few days they will have scans to see if we can push them for the weekend.”

Gyökeres is a blow for Arsenal, especially given his exceptional Champions League form. The 26-year-old has scored eight goals in 11 appearances in the competition — a strike rate few in Europe can match. Having already missed one major fixture, he will be desperate to return quickly to avoid sitting out any more pivotal games as Arsenal’s season intensifies.