Arsenal’s summer signing, Kai Havertz, has been making headlines and drawing comparisons to the legendary Robin van Persie.
Thomas Tuchel, who worked closely with Havertz at Chelsea, believes that he could be the answer to Arsenal’s attacking woes.
In the match against Manchester City, Arsenal struggled to break through City’s defense, with Nketiah finding it challenging.
However, the turning point came when Nketiah was substituted for Havertz. Arteta’s decision to introduce Havertz into the game was significant, and it wasn’t a mere coincidence.
Tuchel’s belief in Havertz stems from his versatility and his ability to adapt to various attacking roles. At Chelsea, Havertz displayed his ability to operate as an attacking midfielder, a false nine, or even as a supporting forward. His technical prowess, vision, and clinical finishing make him a potent threat in the final third.
In an interview in 2022, Tuchel said,
“I see a bit of Dennis Bergkamp, Robin van Persie, [Dimitar] Berbatov kind of player. He can play in the half position because he has good runs, but also feels free from the nine and creates overload to one side.”
“When I watched him at Leverkusen, I didn’t know that I would coach him, when I watched him at Paris [Saint-Germain], they made him play as a nine which was very interesting. I remember when I watched a cup final against Bayern [Munich] with my staff and said, ‘this could be a good role for him’.”
Havertz is the next big thing?
The comparison to Robin van Persie is particularly intriguing. He, was renowned for his lethal finishing, intelligent movement, and ability to create goal-scoring opportunities out of thin air. Arsenal fans treasure his legacy and are thrilled by the possibility of a player emulating his influence.
Havertz’s introduction against Manchester City injected a new dynamic into Arsenal’s attack.
He exploited pockets of freedom with his positioning and spatial awareness, which had eluded Nketiah on the pitch.
This newfound freedom provided Arsenal with the creative spark they desperately needed.
It’s essential to remember that Havertz is still adapting to life at Arsenal and the Premier League. However, his early performances and the faith that Tuchel has shown in him suggest that he may play a more pivotal role as the season progresses.
Indeed, as gunners eagerly await Havertz’s evolution, the comparisons to van Persie bring back beautiful memories for them.
While it’s still too early to make definitive judgments, Havertz’s qualities and potential for growth are reasons for optimism.
The partnership between Havertz and Arsenal could become a defining chapter in the club’s history.However, If Havertz continues to excel in a role that grants him more freedom and creativity, he could be the missing link that catapults Arsenal back into the upper echelons of the Premier League.
Gunners have every reason to be excited about the future with Kai Havertz in their ranks. As the season unfolds, the comparisons could gain more weight, and Arsenal’s attacking fortunes may take a promising turn.
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