Mikel Arteta has hinted that Arsenal forward Kai Havertz could play a different role next season to accommodate Viktor Gyokeres
Mikel Arteta says he is relishing the “good problem” of deciding between Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres for Arsenal’s starting striker role and has not ruled out playing the two together.
Gyokeres, signed from Sporting CP this summer in a £64 million deal, has been brought in to bolster the Gunners’ attacking options and provide direct competition for Havertz, who led the line for much of last season. Both found the net on Saturday as Arsenal cruised to a 3-0 win over Athletic Club in their final pre-season fixture at the Emirates Stadium.
“They can play together,” Arteta said. “Kai can play in different positions as well. I think it elevates the quality in the squad, the goal threat we have, and the options to change things and give the opposition a lot of problems. It’s great to see both of them scoring and in such good form, it’s a good problem to have.”
Kai Havertz
Kai Havertz
Gyokeres’ goal was his first for Arsenal, the 27-year-old rising to meet a pinpoint Martin Zubimendi cross with a powerful header. He almost added a second after the break, only to see another header tipped onto the post.
“That’s his nature,” Arteta said of the Swede’s instinct for goals. “Everything he does, his movement, timing of runs, predicting the next move, finding the space, it’s his instinct. That’s why he’s scored so many goals in recent seasons.
“He pins both centre-backs and, when you leave him one against one in space, he will destroy you. He also creates space for others, and in any situation, you know he can score.”
With both Havertz and Gyokeres showing sharp form ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United at Old Trafford, Arteta’s selection headache may be one he is more than happy to endure.