Mikel Arteta has expressed his excitement over the potential attacking partnership between Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres, insisting that the duo’s ability to play together gives Arsenal a new dimension in attack. Both forwards recently found the back of the net, prompting their manager to highlight the added quality and unpredictability they bring to the squad.
Speaking after their latest performance, Arteta said: _“They can play together. It elevates the quality in the squad, the goal threat in the team and the options we have to change and provide opposition with a lot of problems. It’s great to see both of them scoring. It’s a good problem to have!”_
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Viktor Gyokeres of Arsenal applauds the fans following the team’s victory during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Athletic Club at Emirates Stadium on August 09, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
**A New Strike Force Taking Shape**
Havertz, who has been deployed in multiple positions since joining Arsenal, has adapted impressively to playing alongside Gyökeres, the summer signing who has quickly established himself as a powerful and reliable focal point in attack. The German international’s intelligent movement and creativity have complemented the Swedish striker’s physical presence, finishing ability, and relentless pressing.
Arteta’s comments suggest he sees the pair not as competitors for a starting berth, but as potential partners capable of operating in the same lineup. This could give Arsenal more tactical flexibility, allowing them to switch between different attacking structures mid-game without losing balance.
**Options and Variety in Attack**
The addition of Gyökeres has already diversified Arsenal’s offensive options. While Havertz often thrives in a free role linking midfield and attack, Gyökeres’ instinctive penalty-box movement offers a more traditional No. 9 option. Together, they can stretch defences, create space for Arsenal’s wide players, and pose multiple threats for opposition backlines to deal with.
Arteta believes this variety is crucial in competing at the highest level. “It’s not just about who starts, it’s about what different players can bring in different moments of the game,” the Spaniard explained. “With Havertz and Gyökeres, we can adapt to the opponent, change the rhythm, and give them more problems to solve.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Athletic Club at Emirates Stadium on August 09, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
**Scoring Form a Positive Sign**
For Arteta, the fact that both players have been on the scoresheet recently is an encouraging sign ahead of the busy weeks to come. Goals from multiple sources reduce the burden on any single player and make Arsenal harder to predict. With the Premier League and European fixtures demanding squad rotation, the ability to call upon two in-form forwards could prove decisive.
**A ‘Good Problem’ for Arteta**
The Arsenal boss described the situation as “a good problem to have,” acknowledging that competition for places is a hallmark of successful teams. Instead of worrying about who to leave out, Arteta seems intent on finding ways to get both Havertz and Gyökeres on the pitch together.
If the early signs of their partnership are anything to go by, Arsenal fans may be witnessing the development of a lethal duo capable of delivering big moments in the season ahead.