Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres summoned as witness in Swedish defamation trial

Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres has been summoned to give evidence in a defamation trial in Sweden, it has emerged, a development that could require him to travel to Stockholm in 2026.

The hearing stems from a lawsuit brought by Gyokeres's representative, Hasan Cetinkaya of HCM Sports Management, against two Swedish publications, Fotboll Sthlm and Expressen. Cetinkaya alleges the outlets published claims tying him and his agency to criminal gangs; Gyokeres has been called to testify about a childhood friend as part of the case.

The legal action follows media reports and a separate police inquiry into a firearms incident last month. Swedish authorities investigated why shots were fired at the home of a relative of one of Gyokeres's agents in Huddinge, a suburb of Stockholm. Swedish police have said there are suspicions the incident may be connected to the striker's transfer after the relative allegedly boasted about receiving a portion of the fee.

Those developments prompted warnings from Swedish police that organised criminals may target individuals working in professional football in order to extort them. The defamation suit seeks to challenge reporting that linked the agent and his agency to organised crime; the publications deny wrongdoing in their coverage.

Details of the trial timetable have not been made public beyond the indication that Gyokeres will give evidence in Stockholm District Court in 2026. It was not clear on Friday whether Arsenal had been formally notified of any dates, or whether the club would be required to arrange his release should court appearances clash with team commitments. Arsenal did not immediately comment.

Gyokeres joined Arsenal following a high-profile transfer in which agents and intermediaries were reported to have been involved, and questions about the handling of transfer fees have featured in Swedish reporting and police inquiries. The striker has been a regular starter for Arsenal since his arrival and is under contract with the club.

Legal observers and those within the game have noted that players and agents can occasionally be asked to give witness testimony in matters that touch on football transfers, but court attendance requirements vary depending on jurisdiction and the specific nature of proceedings. The Swedish criminal and civil justice systems can summon witnesses for in-person testimony; whether Gyokeres will appear in person or give evidence by other means will depend on the court's arrangements and any requests from defence or prosecution.

The case highlights growing scrutiny in Sweden and elsewhere of the relationships between advisers, intermediaries and the business of player transfers. Swedish police statements in recent months have emphasised their concern about potential criminal influence in football and the risk of intimidation or extortion of individuals connected to the sport.

Further reporting and official court filings are expected to clarify the timing and scope of Gyokeres's testimony. Until court dates are set and disclosed, the precise impact on his availability for club fixtures cannot be determined.