Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal edged Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford last Sunday in their opening game of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
The Gunners’ new marquee signing, Viktor Gyokeres, was handed his first start up front ahead of Kai Havertz, who spent much of last season leading the line.
Gyokeres endured an unconvincing debut, managing just 14 touches in over an hour on the pitch before being substituted in the second half for Havertz, who made an immediate impact after coming on.
READ MORE: Manchester United desperate to sign Timber this summer
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has since weighed in on Arsenal’s attacking options, predicting that Mikel Arteta will favour Havertz over Gyokeres in the bigger games.
Speaking on Sky Sports after watching Arsenal’s opener, Carragher admitted he was not impressed by the Swedish striker’s performance. “If I’m being honest, I think they’ll go back to Havertz in the big games,” Carragher said.
“I can see Gyökeres playing and scoring goals. I think next week they play Leeds, but the week after [against Liverpool] I’d be very surprised if Havertz doesn’t play.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Carragher emphasised Havertz’s importance to Arteta’s setup, adding: “I think Havertz, in Mikel Arteta’s eyes, is too important to be left out week after week. I don’t see that happening at all.”
His comments suggest that Havertz’s value to the team extends beyond goals, with his experience and work rate regarded as key attributes.
Arsenal stars Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke
Kai Havertz replaced Viktor Gyokeres against Manchester United on Sunday (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures will put this theory to the test, starting with Leeds United before a heavyweight clash with Liverpool at Anfield on August 31.
That encounter will serve as a major test of Arsenal’s credentials, as they look to challenge Arne Slot’s side, who pipped them to the Premier League title by a 10-point margin last season.
While Gyokeres has shown promise, Havertz’s proven pedigree and tactical importance may ultimately cement his place in Arteta’s preferred lineup.
NEXT ARTICLE: David Raya lays down early marker by topping Premier League stats on opening day