Former Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere has expressed confidence that Viktor Gyokeres will build on a strong debut season and start the upcoming campaign "on fire" for the Premier League champions. The Swedish forward scored 21 goals in his first season at Arsenal after joining from Sporting Lisbon for £63.5 million last summer.

Gyokeres was thrust into Arsenal’s starting lineup early in the season, partly due to extended injuries to key attackers Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Despite facing criticism at times, Aliadiere highlighted the challenges Gyokeres overcame adapting to a new club, league, and country. “I think it’s been a season of learning,” Aliadiere said, noting the forward’s adjustment to Arsenal’s system and style of play.

Gyokeres played an important role in Arsenal’s run to the Champions League final, notably scoring a crucial penalty in the first leg of the semi-final against Atletico Madrid. His form notably picked up in the second half of the season, with goals including a brace in the 4-1 North London derby victory over Tottenham and multiple goals in home matches against Sunderland and Fulham. Aliadiere noted the improvement, stating that others in the squad also adapted to maximize Gyokeres’ impact.

Looking ahead, Aliadiere expects Gyokeres to improve further now that the initial adaptation phase is complete. “I expect him to have an even better season because the first one was a bit of a learning season,” he said, adding that the forward will gain confidence from last season’s success.

Arsenal is reportedly evaluating their attacking options for the upcoming campaign, with speculation surrounding potential reinforcements. Among the names linked to the club is Bournemouth striker Kroupi Jr. Aliadiere, who like Kroupi is a product of Lorient’s academy, believes the young forward could complement Gyokeres effectively. Kroupi scored 13 goals in his Premier League debut season and has attracted interest from various European clubs.

“I think the beauty with Kroupi is he’s not a typical No.9. He’s a forward who can play behind Viktor or Kai, or even on the wing,” Aliadiere said. “He’s shown this season that he’s got the whole package.”

As Arsenal prepares for the next season, Gyokeres appears poised to take on a leading role in the team’s attack, with the club’s pursuit of additional offensive depth continuing in the transfer market.