Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres helped Arsenal record a vital 1-0 Champions League win over Sporting CP on Tuesday evening in Portugal
Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the down-low on his former employers Sporting CP
Martin Zubimendi has revealed Viktor Gyokeres gave Arsenal the down-low on Sporting CP ahead of their 1-0 Champions League quarter-final first leg victory in Lisbon.
The Spaniard netted in the second half but the goal was ruled out as Gyokeres was flagged offside during the build-up following a VAR review.
Zubimendi has now detailed exactly what the Swede told his team-mates about his former employers, explaining: “Before the game, Viktor told us everything.
“He talked about the weather, the atmosphere, and how Sporting plays. We trained with a clear plan to defeat their style and it worked.”
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The Spain international was also full of praise for the 27-year-old, who has registered 17 goals in all competitions so far this season for the Gunners.
Zubimendi added: “He’s an excellent forward and is still adored by Sporting fans and players.”
Arsenal had to ride their luck at times at the Jose Alvalade Stadium but they eventually found a late winner courtesy of substitute Kai Havertz.
It means they’re now taking a precious lead back to the Emirates Stadium for next week’s crunch second leg and should they prevail, there’s a firm chance they could face Atletico Madrid, who they thumped 4-0 in the group phase, in the semi-finals as Diego Simeone’s side now boast a 2-0 advantage over Barcelona.
Gyokeres received a warm reception in Lisbon despite the complexities of his departure last summer when Sporting dug their heels into the ground over their asking price.
Mikel Arteta was particularly pleased to hear the striker was able to formally say his goodbyes to the supporters that once worshipped him following the full-time whistle.
The Arsenal boss said: “Well, I didn’t know that but I’m really happy to hear that because I know how he felt in the manner that he had to leave as well. I know when a big player leaves a big club, it’s never easy.
“But if that has been the case, it tells a lot about the culture and the supporters here and as well what Viktor meant to them and what Viktor did for them. So I’m sure he’s very happy with that.”
Arsenal return to Premier League action on Saturday when they host Bournemouth in the lunchtime kick-off.
They can move 12 points clear of Manchester City with victory ahead of City’s trip to Chelsea on Sunday. Pep Guardiola’s men will still have a game in hand once that fixture has been completed.
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