Rui Borges spoke warmly about Viktor Gyokeres, showing respect for the striker’s personality even after his stormy move to Arsenal.
Gyokeres gets respect from Rui Borges
Rui Borges could have easily chosen bitterness after losing his star forward, but instead, the Sporting boss highlighted the human side of Viktor Gyokeres. The Swede had been the heartbeat of Sporting’s dominance. He smashed in close to 100 goals in just two seasons and leading them to consecutive league titles.
The striker’s influence stretched beyond the goals though. He was the face of a side that ruled Portuguese football during his stay. When Arsenal came calling, Gyokeres wanted the leap, and things turned sour. A strike to push the transfer through left many questioning his legacy.
But, Borges cut through the noise. Speaking to O’Jogo, he stressed that even in that tense period, Gyokeres carried himself with dignity off the pitch. That respect from a manager who lived the highs and lows with him says plenty.
New chapter in London
Arsenal fans are already getting a glimpse of the forward who tore apart defenses in Portugal. Gyokeres’ explosive runs and clinical finishing have translated quickly to the PL. The pressure is heavy, after all, a man with nearly a century of goals at Sporting isn’t arriving to be just another squad option.
Borges’ words remind everyone that Gyokeres brings more than numbers. For him, the forward was not only a matchwinner, but also as a player who deserved respect in the team. Sporting may regret losing such a player. But, the words from the head coach show Gyokeres gave the club more than just trophies. He left behind the mark of a leader who carried himself the right way, even when circumstances were messy.
Author’s Opinion:
Gyokeres’ exit will always split opinion in Lisbon. But, Borges’ words show why some players leave a legacy that isn’t tarnished by transfer sagas. Arsenal may have signed a striker, but what they really gained is a competitor with character.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
