3 reasons why Kai Havertz has actually had a good start to the season

Four games into the season and it appears that a lot of Arsenal fans are displeased with Kai Havertz. With no goals and no assists yet, it hasn’t been an easy start for the German who came with a hefty £65m price tag.

There have been some shaky moments for Havertz so far. A miscue against Manchester United that could’ve and should’ve put the Gunners in the lead and losing the ball for Marcus Rashford’s goal stick out in particular.

I believed that Mikel Arteta signed him as a striker but it now seems clear that Arteta wants him in his midfield. This led to me considering Havertz’s performances and role more in-depth. I have concluded that Havertz has actually performed well so far this season – at least, he has performed well for a new signing playing a position unfamiliar to him.

3 reasons why Kai Havertz has actually had a good start to the season

It’s important to not get caught up in specifics and to look at the big picture, especially at this early point in the season. Bearing that in mind, let’s get into the 3 reasons why Havertz has actually had a good start to the season and isn’t likely to be dropped anytime soon.

1. His work off the ball

The biggest reason why I thought Havertz was signed to start up front was because I didn’t think he was capable of performing defensively to the level required.

However, he’s instead been expected to fill big shoes in midfield, essentially replacing Granit Xhaka. So far, Havertz has exceeded my expectations without the ball. He’s had the awareness to be in the right places at the right time and, importantly, has done exactly what’s been asked of him, which requires quite some discipline.

For example, in the first 25 minutes against United, the Arsenal plan was to not press high to force United to go long or try and build up from deep without transitions. This led to the Red Devils not having a single chance until their goal. United going 1-0 up was both fortunate and ruthless, but it’s important to look at processes rather than outcomes.

Havertz played a vital part in this system and never pressed high, instead occupying the midfield and stopping Onana from finding a spare man in the middle of the park.

His large frame also makes Havertz good in duels, with his long legs getting in the way. The German has already made some crucial blocks, including one against Marcus Rashford. With his qualities in attack, being able to defend was crucial for his survival in this team, and he has performed well in this aspect.

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