Viktor Gyökeres Tells Sporting He Wants to Leave, Refuses to Return

Viktor Gyökeres has told Sporting CP he will not play for them again. He has asked to leave the club and refuses to train. The Swedish striker wants a new challenge after feeling a previous promise to let him leave was broken.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Gyökeres spoke personally with Sporting president Frederico Varandas to express his desire to leave this summer. He is disappointed after a supposed “gentleman’s agreement” for an easy exit was not honored. Consequently, he is not expected to join Sporting’s pre-season sessions. He made it clear to Sporting he does not intend to play for the club next season. Gyökeres is eyeing a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal reportedly preparing a bid in the €75-80 million range. Manchester United and Juventus are also interested, but Arsenal seem to be leading the race.

GYÖKERES’ SENSATIONAL SEASON AND SPORTING’S SITUATION

Gyökeres delivered an incredible performance in the 2024/25 season, scoring 44 goals in 42 matches for Sporting across all competitions. His goals were instrumental in helping Sporting win the Primeira Liga for the second time in 3 seasons, finishing at the top with 90 points, four points ahead of rivals Benfica. With a potential Gyökeres exit looming, Sporting face considerable uncertainty in attack, as he contributed to over 45 per cent of their league goals this season. Their upcoming fixture is the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira against Benfica, with Sporting set to defend their title and Porto eager to close the gap after finishing third in the league.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR GYÖKERES AND SPORTING?

Sporting are under pressure to negotiate Gyökeres’ departure and secure a replacement before the start of the new season. Arsenal are expected to make their official bid in the coming days as they look to boost their frontline following injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. If Gyökeres joins Arsenal, he could feature in their pre-season tour in Asia against AC Milan, Newcastle, and Tottenham. Meanwhile, Sporting must act swiftly to find a new forward to replace their top scorer, as they aim to defend their league title and compete in the Champions League.