UCL: Arteta reveals secret Gyokeres talks ahead of Sporting reunion — 'I asked him for information'

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for European glory, admitting he has leaned on Viktor Gyokeres’ intimate knowledge of Sporting CP to gain a competitive edge.

The Arsenal manager confirmed ahead of tonight’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final that he held private discussions with his star striker regarding the "dynamics and culture" of the Portuguese champions.

Gyokeres, who made a high-profile switch from Lisbon to North London, returns to the Estadio Jose Alvalade for the first time as the focal point of the Gunners' attack.

Sporting have transformed their home ground into a genuine fortress, boasting an incredible 17-game winning streak in front of their own fans.

Arteta, who has vowed to bounce back after double heartbreaks, wary of the atmosphere and the tactical discipline instilled by the hosts, chose to use his "inside man" to bypass traditional scouting.

"They have a lot of qualities, what they're doing is remarkable, and the record that they have at home is just incredible."

The move highlights Arteta’s obsessive attention to detail. While Arsenal remain unbeaten in 10 European matches this season, the scars of their 2023 exit to Sporting, via a heartbreaking penalty shootout, remain fresh in the memory of the London side.

For Gyokeres, the reunion is purely professional despite the emotional ties. The Swede has been in prolific form since arriving at the Emirates, but tonight he carries the dual burden of being Arsenal’s chief goal threat and their primary tactical informant.

Arsenal face a depleted Sporting side missing Geovany Quenda and captain Morten Hjulmand, but the "Gyokeres Intel" may prove to be the most vital weapon in Arteta’s arsenal.

In a competition decided by the thinnest of margins, the Spaniard is betting that a former hero's secrets can finally breach the Alvalade fortress.