Arteta Labels Havertz ‘Key Man’ in Arsenal’s UCL Triumph Over PSG
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on Kai Havertz, describing the forward as “unbelievable” after his standout performance in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. Havertz, who joined the Gunners from Chelsea in a £65 million transfer, opened the scoring after 20 minutes, rising to meet Leandro Trossard’s pinpoint cross and heading past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The German’s crucial goal set the tone for a dominant display by Arsenal, who doubled their lead just 15 minutes later through Bukayo Saka’s expertly taken free kick, leaving Donnarumma rooted to the spot as the ball curled into the far corner. Arsenal comfortably managed the game thereafter, securing their first Champions League win of the season in front of a jubilant Emirates crowd.
After the match, Arteta was full of admiration for Havertz’s contributions, emphasizing the forward’s intelligence and influence on the pitch. “He’s been unbelievable,” Arteta told Amazon Prime. “His football brain, the way he understands space, his timing, he brings people together. His work ethic is incredible as well, and now he is a real threat around the penalty box. He is one of our main players at the moment.”
Havertz’s rise to prominence at Arsenal has been remarkable. While it took him 26 matches to score five goals last season, he has already matched that tally in just nine games this campaign. The 25-year-old has now scored in six consecutive matches at the Emirates, further solidifying his status as a key player in Arteta’s plans.
Reflecting on his goal and the team’s performance, Havertz said: “It feels great to play here, I love the stadium, I love the fans. I didn’t really think too much. I just saw the ball, went for it, and I was lucky that I was in front of the goalkeeper.”
Arteta also praised the team’s growing strength from set-pieces, noting, “It’s another weapon that we have. We have great takers, and a very physical team. Credit goes to the coaches and the players for buying into it. They understand these are the game changers.”
With this win, Arsenal now sit on four points in the Champions League group stage, following their opening draw with Atalanta. Arteta declared himself “really, really happy with the performance,” as the Gunners continue to show their credentials on Europe’s biggest stage.
Arteta Labels Havertz ‘Key Man’ in Arsenal’s UCL Triumph Over PSG
