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Arsenal 1-1 Manchester City (4-1p) – 3 talking points from Community Shield win

By Adam Schultz

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 06: Arsenal celebrate after the penalty shoot-out following The FA Community Shield match between Manchester City against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 06: Arsenal celebrate after the penalty shoot-out following The FA Community Shield match between Manchester City against Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images) /
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Kai Havertz was used as a striker in Gabriel Jesus’ absence. (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images)
Kai Havertz was used as a striker in Gabriel Jesus’ absence. (Photo by Matthew Ashton – AMA/Getty Images) /

3. Has Arteta found Havertz’s ideal spot?

A false nine, hey? Well, those who thought Kai Havertz might drift in and out of the game against City were sadly mistaken… and he might have a case that he could be the Gunners’ secret weapon when called upon.

Against City, Havertz, playing as a false nine, was superb. His hold-up play with his back to goal, and pressing were first-class as he gave the Gunners an outlet not seen since the days of Olivier Giroud.

Now, it is only one game, but this might’ve been the moment when Arsenal fans finally saw something that makes them go: “Okay, this could work with Kai.”

The only downside is he spurned two great chances, but Havertz nonetheless showed his quality (and physicality), and given his versatility, I imagine this won’t be the last time we see Arteta use the German in a different and unique position.

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