3 tactical reasons that justify the Kai Havertz risk

3. Runs into the box

Last season, Kai Havertz made 334 off-ball runs into the opposition penalty area in the Premier League – the second most of any player after Erling Haaland (349).

With Jesus dropping deep to receive, having a player like Havertz who can flick on and lay off the ball, but also run into the box, gives Arsenal the ability to push and pull defences in a way they couldn’t last season.

These runs led to Havertz finishing the season with the most goals for Chelsea, most shots on target and most chances created; which perhaps tells you how bad the environment at the club was given he finished with seven goals and one assist.

While his position isn’t distinct, it is clear that he has all the ingredients, including pace, to mould him into a top player, and bring out that phenomenal Leverkusen youngster.

This is a high-risk, high-reward signing, and one that could be huge if Arteta can unlock his magic abilities, and is hopefully just the start of a big summer.