Kai Havertz has recently moved to Arsenal from Chelsea.
On Tuesday at Audi Field, in a skill challenge attended by many, Kai Havertz attempted a cross and volley competition 14 times, failing each time.
24 hours later, in the concluding moment of Arsenal’s dominant 5-0 victory over Major League Soccer’s All-Stars, Havertz was on target. He received a cross from Marquinhos from the right flank, skillfully controlled the ball on his chest and lashed a volley into the far corner of the goal.
Such is the unpredictability of football. Rise to the occasion when it counts.
Undeniably, there will be more crucial matches for Arsenal than this one.
However, on a hot evening, with more than 20,000 spectators at Audi Field, most of them Gunners’ supporters cheering for co-chair Josh Kroenke during the pre-match introductions, Havertz was far from the only one pleased with his performance.
Worth noting, this victory marks the largest ever by a European team in the All-Star game.
“Extremely satisfied,” was manager Mikel Arteta’s review after Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Jorginho, Gabriel Martinelli, and Havertz scored to secure victory.
Arteta sees Havertz as a versatile offensive asset
Following the circulation of clips from Havertz’s Tuesday attempts, Havertz faced a flurry of sarcastic remarks, a situation all too familiar from his inconsistent tenure at Chelsea.
Nevertheless, it seems he was frequently asked to play in positions that didn’t suit his style.
Arteta envisions Havertz as a flexible attacking player. Although Jesus is slated to play as the primary striker, Havertz was seen playing alongside him towards the end after initially being positioned to the left of a three-person midfield, with Jorginho as the anchor.
“Havertz brings a unique skillset and height,” Arteta commented.
“He can serve as a target man to bypass the press if needed. He’s currently an attacking midfielder, but I foresee him filling various roles throughout the season.”
Jurrien Timber makes his mark
Jurrien Timber’s transition to Arsenal has been relatively unnoticed.
Signed from Ajax for £34m after Arsenal beat several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Timber’s move was publicized less than 24 hours before the highly anticipated transfer of Declan Rice from West Ham.
Despite the focus being on Rice, Timber’s confident ball handling and quick, precise passes made his significant role this season clear.
Arteta praised Timber’s versatility and dynamism. “He gives us the option to invert and cover different spaces. He’s comfortable on the ball and has a keen eye for danger. I anticipate he’ll play a vital role for us.”
Trossard’s status to be confirmed
The Gunners now head to New Jersey, where they will confront Manchester United at MetLife Stadium on Saturday.
Arteta mentioned that Trossard would be examined after requiring medical attention for an injury that led to his immediate removal.
“We don’t want to take any risks at this stage,” stated Arteta. “He felt some pain and we’ll evaluate him tomorrow, but I don’t anticipate it to be serious.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kai Havertz Arsenal Performance
Who scored for Arsenal in their match against the MLS All-Stars?
Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Jorginho, and Gabriel Martinelli scored for Arsenal in their 5-0 victory over the MLS All-Stars.
Which player did Arsenal sign from Chelsea this summer?
Arsenal signed Kai Havertz from Chelsea this summer.
Who is the new player that Arsenal signed from Ajax?
Jurrien Timber is the new player that Arsenal signed from Ajax in a £34m deal.
What position is Mikel Arteta planning to use Kai Havertz in?
Mikel Arteta plans to use Kai Havertz as a flexible attacking player in various positions throughout the season.
What is the status of Leandro Trossard’s injury?
Leandro Trossard’s status is yet to be confirmed after needing treatment for an injury. He will be assessed before the upcoming match against Manchester United.
More about Kai Havertz Arsenal Performance
- Arsenal Official Website
- Kai Havertz’s Transfer to Arsenal
- Jurrien Timber’s Transfer to Arsenal
- MLS All-Star Game
- Leandro Trossard’s Player Profile
4 comments
Gutted to see Arsenal win so convincingly. Havertz seems to have found his form. Timber could be a good signing. Trossard’s injury might affect their upcoming matches. Congrats, Gunners.
Arsenal thrash MLS All-Stars! Havertz with a stunning goal. Timber impresses in his debut. Trossard’s injury is a concern, hoping it’s nothing serious. Arteta’s tactics paying off. #Gunners
Havertz was amazin! Great to see him score after his tough time at chelsea. Arteta knows how to use him. Timber lookin’ solid too. Hope Trossard recovers quick. Onwards, Arsenal! #COYG
wow arsenal win 5-0 vs mls all-stars!!! kai havertz great goal! so good to see him perform. timber is good addition. trossard hurt but hope not bad. go gunners!