Kai Havertz had already seen Christos Tzolis’ quality in Germany before the winger marked his first Arsenal appearance with a goal.
Kai Havertz was not surprised to see Christos Tzolis make an instant impression for Arsenal. He had already seen what the winger could do back in Germany, long before their paths crossed in north London.
Tzolis wasted little time making his mark, scoring on his debut as Arsenal swept aside Girona 4-1 in pre-season. It was an early glimpse of the direct, attacking style that convinced the club to bring him in.
Cutting in from the left, the Greece international found the net and set the tone for what Arsenal hope will be a season full of decisive moments under Mikel Arteta.
After the match, Havertz told Arsenal’s media team that Tzolis’ display only confirmed what he already knew from watching him years ago.
“Amazing. I think you saw his quality, you know, from the first minute,” Havertz said.
“I mean I saw it already a couple of years ago when I saw him playing in Germany.”
Tzolis spent three years in Germany after leaving PAOK for Norwich City in 2021, including a spell at Fortuna Düsseldorf before making his name in the Bundesliga. That gave Havertz plenty of chances to see his talent up close, well before Arsenal came calling.
On this evidence, Tzolis has settled quickly into Arsenal’s attack. He linked up well with Havertz and the other forwards, always looking to pick up the ball in dangerous areas and drive at Girona’s defence.
Arteta has already spoken about Tzolis’ goal threat, versatility and work rate. Now, with Havertz adding his own endorsement, it is clear the new signing has already made an impression inside the dressing room.
Mikel Arteta believes Christos Tzolis’ direct running, goal threat and hunger will quickly make him a popular figure at Arsenal.roundtable.ioMikel Arteta Explains Why Arsenal Fans Will Love Christos Tzolis
Mikel Arteta believes Christos Tzolis’ direct running, goal threat and hunger will quickly make him a popular figure at Arsenal.
Havertz also pointed to the character Tzolis has shown since arriving at the Gunners.
“He’s a top guy, top player,” Havertz added. “And I think we’re all very glad to have him here.”
Competition for places will be fierce, with Arsenal’s attack packed with established Premier League names. But Tzolis’ ability to play wide or drift inside gives Arteta another option as the fixtures pile up at home and in Europe.
How Tzolis stacks up against Arsenal’s other attackers will become clearer as pre-season goes on. For now, his debut goal was a reminder of why the club moved quickly to bring him in.
There is still an adjustment ahead for Tzolis, both to Arteta’s tactical demands and the speed of English football. But he is not a mystery to everyone at Arsenal.
Havertz saw his quality from afar. Now, after just one game together, his first impression has only been reinforced.