Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have been beset by injuries this season and despite only just making his return to the side, Kai Havertz and his best position has already been questioned
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Kai Havertz’s versatility is one of his biggest strengths – despite the German not agreeing. He has played a number of positions during his spell with both the Gunners and former side Chelsea.
Havertz has played in roles up front, albeit his goalscoring ability has been questioned in that particular position. Meanwhile, the former Bayer Leverkusen man has also been stationed in midfield on occasion.
With the German international making his return to action against Newcastle at the weekend following a long injury lay-off, Arsenal boss Arteta has admitted that his skill to play anywhere asked off him is a huge bonus.
Speaking after the slender 1-0 win against the Magpies, he said: “One of the biggest qualities with Kai is his versatility and his goal threat whenever he plays and he’s so intelligent. He will play as a No9, he will play as an attacking midfielder – and he will be super important for us as a team.”
Meanwhile, Havertz has already spoken out on his position. While he claims that he is happy to help Arsenal wherever they might need him, a constantly changing position might not always be beneficial.
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Speaking earlier this season, he said: “I don’t know how many times I answered this question already. I’m just happy to be on the pitch. I’m not a player who only plays in one position. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes its bad, but it suits me quite well. I just love it in this team.
“I love to play as the false nine, the eight, as the No10, wherever you want me to go. In Germany. I played as a left-back as well, so it’s all good.”
That attitude is certainly different to the one Havertz had with his first club Bayer Leverkusen, where he suggested he favoured being away from the frontline. Speaking at the time, he said: “I would say the No.8 position, inside right. I’m not a classic No.10, but I like to have the ball at my feet, simply enjoying myself on the pitch.
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“I’ve played in many other positions, but I prefer to play in the centre, where I have more of the ball. My dream will always be to wear the No.10 one day at my club.”
Havertz, 25, joined Arsenal from Chelsea in 2023. He has gone on to score 29 goals in 86 outings for the North London side since then.
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