Kai Havertz is making a substantial impact at Arsenal, significantly easing the goal-scoring pressure on Bukayo Saka. Saka, who has emerged as a homegrown talent this season, recently showcased his skills in a comeback win against Southampton, where he notched his sixth and seventh assists, alongside his second league goal of the campaign. His impressive statistics speak for themselves; he ranks among the top 10 in the Premier League for shots, key passes, and dribbles, solidifying his position as a standout player for Arsenal. Yet, this does not imply that the team is solely dependent on him.
That’s where Kai Havertz comes in—a player whose role has transformed since joining the squad from Chelsea last summer. Initially identified as a forward, he soon realized that he wasn’t playing at his best in that role. Mikel Arteta took note of this and moved Havertz into midfield to mitigate the gap left by Granit Xhaka’s exit. However, this switch didn’t produce the desired outcomes, making Havertz feel somewhat out of sync with the team’s rhythm. With a hefty price tag of £65 million, Arteta was determined not to let Havertz sit idly on the bench.
Ultimately, Arteta’s decision to position Havertz as a striker, particularly with Gabriel Jesus out due to injury, has proven to be a game-changer. This tactical shift has allowed Havertz to thrive, turning him into an essential part of the team. His playing style complements that of Saka and other wingers like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, creating opportunities for them to capitalize on. Havertz’s knack for dropping deeper to gain possession is opening up more chances for his teammates.
After a challenging period of figuring out his best position, Havertz is now flourishing in a spot that suits him perfectly in North London. His recent performances have made him one of Arsenal’s key players as they pursue success both domestically and in Europe. In fact, he has scored in four consecutive matches, bringing his total to four league goals this season. If he keeps this momentum going, he could easily surpass his total of 13 goals from last season.
While scoring is crucial for any forward, Havertz’s contributions extend beyond just finding the back of the net. He excels at creating space for the wingers and brings a physical presence to the front line. This season, he has been vital in aerial duels, with only two players in the league outperforming him in that aspect.
Unlike teams such as Manchester City and Tottenham, Arsenal doesn’t always maintain dominant possession, averaging around 49.2%. Therefore, having a forward of Havertz’s caliber is critical, especially when the strategy leans toward direct attacks. He’s unafraid to take on defenders, averaging 1.7 fouls per 90 minutes, effectively disrupting the opponent’s rhythm.
On the defensive end, Havertz is equally impressive, recording the highest number of clearances among Premier League strikers this season. Arsenal fans are starting to recognize his all-around contributions, even if Saka often garners the spotlight. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that Saka’s ability to excel at such a high level is significantly bolstered by Havertz’s presence on the pitch. Should Arsenal secure the title ahead of rivals like Liverpool and Manchester City, Havertz’s role will be crucial, positioning him as a near-MVP in the squad.
