Kai Havertz was announced as Arsenal’s first summer signing a couple of weeks ago.
The German International has switched allegiances and joined the red side of London from rivals Chelsea in a deal which could rise up to £65million. Mikel Arteta brings the player in with the aim to bolster his new look Arsenal midfield following the departure of Granit Xhaka which was confirmed today. The question now remains as to how the once wonderkid from Leverkusen can slot into the Arsenal squad and what how much influence can he offer?
The last three seasons have seen Havertz deployed across a variety of positions at Chelsea. From playing as a false nine, attacking midfielder, winger and most recently as the focal point in attack. The ability to showcase his versatility began in Germany when the technical play-maker was able to shine greatly as both an attacking midfielder and striker. The ability to perform across the field comes down greatly to Havertz’s tremendous technical ability; from his link up play to mastering the move of shifting and gliding smoothly past opponents.
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With the Gunners set to lose Granit Xhaka and potentially Thomas Partey to sales this transfer window a few positions within the midfield are set to open up as Mikel Arteta looks to revolutionise his midfield ahead of the 2023/24 campaign. Last season saw Xhaka play significantly higher up the pitch with Partey and Odegaard dictating the game from a deeper role and this could be a similar role where Havertz replaces the Swiss international next season.
As Havertz has demonstrated he can prove effective in positions closer to the goal and this attacking role may be perfect for the German. With the license to link up play with the front line whilst making darting runs in behind is something he is most certainly comfortable with. It has also been confirmed that Kai Havertz will also be taking the number 29 shirt which was once previously worn by Xhaka himself and this could further indicate that he will slot right into Xhaka’s position as the highest playing midfielder.
Undoubtedly Havertz will have to support the team through slotting into different positions for Arsenal throughout the duration of the season as many factors such as injuries to the team may occur. Filling in as a striker for Jesus to occupying the number 8 role, however it is looking increasingly likely that the attacking midfielder’s role is where he will primarily play and Arsenal fans will hope that is also where he will shine!
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