Arteta says ‘unbelievable’ Arsenal player answering critics

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·2 October 2024

Arteta says ‘unbelievable’ Arsenal player answering critics

Mikel Arteta has said Kai Havertz is justifying Arsenal’s decision not to sign a centre-forward in the summer transfer window.

Arsenal were linked with a number of forwards during the summer, with the Gunners credited with interest in the likes of Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen. However, the North London side decided against actively pursuing a number nine with Havertz occupying the role successfully across the second half of last season.

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The German has started the new season in fine form and has five goals in nine appearances across all competitions.

Havertz opened the scoring in the 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League with a brave header, extending his record to six straight games at the Emirates with a goal.

“He has been unbelievable,” Arteta said at his post-match press conference after the PSG win.

“His football brain, the way he understands space, timing, the way he brings people together and his work ethic is incredible.

“Every time he is around the box he is a real threat and he is one of the main players at the moment.”

Havertz says Arsenal teammates a ‘joy’ to play with

Havertz opened up on his form for Arsenal and said it is a ‘joy’ to play alongside the club’s attacking talent.

“When you see the players we have on the ball, when they’re outside, I’m tall, I like to take the space and help the team with those runs. Today it worked quite well, we train a lot on it.

“When you have players around you like these, it’s just a joy to play football. It’s the start of the season, and we can still be better. I think we’re all looking forward to the next few weeks.

“I think we all enjoyed it today, especially in the first half. I think we were the better team, showed what we are capable of, and it was great to be out there. The atmosphere was nice and it was just a nice game to play in.”

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