Former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott has questioned Arsenal’s ability to win the Premier League this season, arguing that their new striker Viktor Gyokeres lacks the elite quality needed to lead a title-winning attack.

Speaking with Sky Bet, Lescott said that while Gyokeres is a decent addition, being merely “okay” isn’t enough for a team with championship ambitions.

“I would describe Victor Gyokeres as ‘okay’. If you are going to win the league, your striker can’t be okay; he has to be top,” Lescott stated.

The 31-year-old Swedish forward joined Arsenal from Sporting CP during the summer and has since managed three goals in ten appearances — a respectable start, but not the kind of blistering form that puts fear into title rivals.

Lescott also expressed skepticism about Mikel Arteta’s ability to maintain Arsenal’s consistency across a demanding league campaign.

“I don’t think Mikel Arteta can get Arsenal over the line in the Premier League. But in the Champions League, it’s different,” he added.

The former England defender, however, acknowledged that Arsenal’s rotational strength and tactical discipline could make them more dangerous in Europe.

“With the way he rotates and because of that big gap [before the knockout stages], no one knows what kind of form or fitness teams will be in. That suits Arsenal better than having to be consistently good every single week to win the league.”

💭 Opinion: Lescott Has a Point — But Arsenal’s Story Isn’t Written Yet

Joleon Lescott’s comments might sting for Arsenal fans, but they carry a hint of realism. To win the Premier League, a team often needs a striker who can turn tight draws into decisive wins — someone like Haaland, Kane, or even peak Aubameyang.

Viktor Gyokeres, though hardworking and technically gifted, is still finding his rhythm in the Premier League. His link-up play is impressive, his movement intelligent — yet he hasn’t shown that ruthless edge that separates the “good” from the “great.”

However, it’s too early to write him off. Many elite strikers — from Drogba to Henry — took time to adapt to English football before exploding into dominance. Gyokeres could still evolve into that consistent goal threat Arsenal have long missed.

As for Arteta, his philosophy has already transformed Arsenal into a disciplined, tactically sharp side capable of challenging Europe’s best. But Lescott is right about one thing: consistency wins leagues. And until Arsenal find that killer instinct in attack, they might remain “almost champions” — a brilliant team just one goal short of glory.

Still, football loves a redemption story. And if Gyokeres can silence his critics in the coming months, he might just turn Lescott’s “okay” into “outstanding.”