BREAKING: Arsenal striker Victor Gyökeres finally reveals why he couldn’t score against Manchester United – and names ONE Red Devils star as the best defender he has ever faced

Arsenal’s summer signing Victor Gyökeres has quickly adapted to life in the Premier League, but the Swedish striker has already admitted that he faced his toughest challenge yet when Arsenal met Manchester United. In a brutally honest post-match reflection, the forward revealed the one defender who completely shut him down and even described him as the best he has ever faced in his career.

The highly anticipated clash between Arsenal and Manchester United was billed as a battle between two giants of English football, with Gyökeres expected to play a starring role. But instead of shining in front of goal, he found himself locked in a relentless duel with a defender who never allowed him a moment’s rest.

Speaking after the game, Gyökeres explained why he failed to score despite Arsenal’s attacking intent. “The reason I couldn’t get a goal against United was simple — this defender followed me everywhere. He read every movement before I even made it. Each time I tried to make a run or look for space, he was already there. I’ve honestly never experienced that level of defensive awareness before,” he confessed.

What makes the revelation even more striking is that Gyökeres has already faced elite defenders across Europe during his time at Sporting CP and in international football with Sweden. Yet, he insists that this Manchester United star stood out above all the rest, not only for his physicality but also for his intelligence on the pitch.

According to the Arsenal striker, this wasn’t just about strength or speed — it was about a complete package. “He had the power to match me physically, the tactical knowledge to anticipate my moves, and the calmness to make it look easy. For me, that combination was something I hadn’t seen before,” Gyökeres said, acknowledging the sheer dominance of his opponent.

Manchester United supporters have greeted these comments with pride, viewing them as further proof that their defensive unit, long criticized in recent years, is finally regaining its reputation under new manager Rúben Amorim. For a club that has been searching for stability at the back since the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, Gyökeres’ words are a glowing endorsement.

The defender in question, now hailed by Gyökeres as the “best he has ever faced,” has quickly become a cornerstone of Amorim’s new-look United. His presence not only neutralized Arsenal’s most dangerous attacking outlet but also set the tone for United’s resilience throughout the game. Many fans are already calling him the leader of a new defensive era at Old Trafford.

For Arsenal, however, Gyökeres’ struggles highlight an ongoing concern. Mikel Arteta’s side dominated possession but failed to break through United’s defensive wall. The inability of their star striker to get on the scoresheet reflects the frustration of a team that prides itself on free-flowing football but couldn’t find a way past Amorim’s organized back line.

Gyökeres himself admitted that while the match was frustrating, it was also a learning curve. “Sometimes you need to face challenges like this to grow. I know I’ll face him again, and I’ll be better prepared next time. But right now, I can only respect the quality he showed,” the Swede admitted.

This candid confession adds fuel to the growing narrative that Manchester United may have finally solved their long-standing defensive issues. If their star defender continues to deliver such commanding performances, Amorim’s side could soon be serious contenders in both the Premier League and Europe.

Arsenal, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly. Gyökeres was signed to be the clinical finisher capable of turning tight matches in their favor. While one off-day doesn’t define him, the Gunners will be hoping he can learn from this experience and bounce back with the ruthlessness they bought him for.

For now, Gyökeres’ statement is being celebrated in Manchester as a major compliment. As he put it himself: “He’s truly a blessing for Manchester United.” Few words could better capture just how decisive this defender has already become in reshaping United’s ambitions.