“He’s the most unserious player in Arsenal, he wastes time alot and despite his old age, he still plays like a baby” – Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry has brutally suggested that 24 years old brilliant Arsenal star shouldn’t be starting matches again- Not Rice, Not Smith Rowe and not Jurrien Timber
“He’s the most unserious player in Arsenal, he wastes time alot and despite his old age, he still plays like a baby” – Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry has brutally suggested that 24 years old brilliant Arsenal star shouldn’t be starting matches again- Not Rice, Not Smith Rowe and not Jurrien Timber
‘HE DRIFTS THROUGH GAMES…’ THIERY HENRY SUGGESTS 24-YEAR-OLD SHOULDN’T BE STARTING FOR ARSENAL
Mikel Arteta’s tenure at Arsenal has been marked by a frequent rotation of strikers, especially with Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injury. This consistent shuffling has not only become a hallmark of Arteta’s management style since the former Manchester City star’s arrival at the club but has also presented opportunities for other players to stake their claim in the starting lineup.
One such player thrust into the spotlight is Kai Havertz, who, following his high-profile move from Chelsea to Arsenal, has faced scrutiny over his performances, particularly when deployed as the team’s number nine. Thierry Henry, a legendary figure in Arsenal’s history, has expressed skepticism about Havertz’s suitability for this role, emphasizing that the 24-year-old has yet to prove himself in that position despite being given chances. Henry’s sentiments were echoed during a recent interview with Premier League Productions, where he emphasized Havertz’s tendency to “drift through games” when playing as a striker.
Despite Henry’s reservations, Havertz found himself occupying the central attacking role during Arsenal’s notable 3-1 victory over Liverpool in the Premier League. Although his one-on-one opportunity was thwarted by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, Havertz’s involvement in the build-up play contributed to Bukayo Saka’s subsequent goal from the rebound. This performance earned him a continued place in the starting lineup, albeit with occasional rotations, such as Leandro Trossard assuming the number nine position in a subsequent match against West Ham United, which ended in a resounding 6-0 victory for Arsenal.
Critics have questioned Havertz’s signing even before his arrival at the Emirates Stadium, raising doubts about the rationale behind his transfer. However, the ultimate vindication of this decision will only be evident when the season concludes. Should Arsenal, led by Havertz, clinch the Premier League title, it would silence his detractors and validate Arteta’s transfer strategy. Conversely, another season without silverware would likely reignite scrutiny over Arteta’s choices in the transfer market, akin to the scrutiny faced over decisions regarding goalkeepers David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale. Ultimately, the outcome of the season will provide the definitive judgment on Havertz’s role and Arsenal’s overall performance.
