Mikel Arteta is expected to start Kai Havertz as the lone striker in Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League clash against Aston Villa.
Jesus initially backed to start
Gabriel Jesus was initially tipped by many to begin the season as Arsenal’s first-choice striker, but Arteta has continued to place his faith in Havertz up front. Jesus has struggled with injury issues over the past two seasons, limiting him to just 41 league starts. During his absences, Havertz has stepped up with strong performances, further reducing the former Manchester City player’s chances of regularly starting.
Despite this, Jesus showed promise in pre-season, leading to speculation that he might reclaim the starting role. Arteta was also impressed with the 27-year-old Brazilian’s form, stating that “he’s come back in top condition.” Jesus himself was optimistic, declaring that “this year it is different.”
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Kai Havertz experimented in the midfield
In pre-season, Arteta experimented with Havertz in a midfield role, but he now appears confident in his decision to deploy the German international as his primary number nine. Havertz has adapted well to the striker role, despite it not being his natural position. Last season, his debut year with Arsenal, Havertz made 30 starts, scoring 13 goals and providing seven assists. Importantly, the German international managed to over perform his expected goals (xG) by 0.7, which is a good look for his finishing abilities. He also had a good game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring and assisting at the Etihad Stadium.
Throughout the summer, Arsenal were rumoured to be in the market for an elite 20-goal-a-season striker, but these talks have quieted, with Arteta seemingly content with his current options. Unless Havertz is sidelined with an injury or faces a significant dip in form, the 25-year-old is likely to be the starter for the entire campaign. Thankfully, Jesus hasn’t showed bitterness to this decision, with the Brazilian reportedly content to wait patiently for a starting spot and “super happy in North London”.
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🚨Havertz expected to start vs Villa
Jesus is fine with remaining patient for a starting spot and is “super happy” in London
(@jordandaviesj ) pic.twitter.com/JJEtKRRSOA
— Doc (@karthikadhaigal) August 21, 2024
