Julian Nagelsmann shares what has really improved in Kai Havertz’s game since joining Arsenal

Add as preferred source on Google

Ahead of the upcoming north London derby, Arsenal striker Kai Havertz is certainly looking in excellent condition for both club and country.

Havertz scored Germany’s fifth goal in their 5-0 win against Hungary on Saturday evening, another fine performance for the Arsenal striker.

Havertz was hailed by German media, even if some did still feel as if the forward could improve in terms of taking his chances.

The striker has scored two goals in three games for the Gunners this season, but wasted a few chances for his country in a dominant performance vs Hungary.

Interestingly, Havertz was deployed in a number 10 role by his manager Julian Nagelsmann, who opted to play the Arsenal man alongside Niclas Fullkrug – who has just moved to West Ham United.

Julian Nagelsmann says ‘incredible’ Kai Havertz has become so clever at Arsenal

After the 5-0 win and Havertz’s goal, Nagelsmann was speaking to local media and reflecting on the game, focusing on the striker’s performance in particular.

Journalist Kerry Hau shared the comments on X, words that are particularly interesting from an Arsenal fan point of view.

READ MORE: Declan Rice makes ‘honest’ admission on his fitness at Arsenal this season after scoring for England

Nagelsmann said: “Kai has made a big step forward in the last two years. He has the potential to be world class in many positions. 

“He runs an incredible amount and has become very clever. Sometimes he lacks a bit of luck when it comes to finishing.

“The co-captaincy is good for him. He is a smart person, very reflective, very modest. I hope that he continues to believe in himself.”

Of course, the Germany manager is referring to Havertz being added to his country’s leadership team after the international retirement of Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan.

Mikel Arteta must resist urge to alter Kai Havertz’s position in north London derby

Given Declan Rice will miss the upcoming north London derby through suspension, Mikel Arteta may be tempted to drop Havertz back into a number eight role.

In that scenario, either Gabriel Jesus (if fit) or Leandro Trossard would play as the nine, an option Arteta may lean towards.

However, given how strong Havertz has been up top for Arsenal so far this season, that may be a mistake.

Arsenal should replace Rice with Riccardo Calafiori – the Italian comes in at left-back and Jurrien Timber moves into the midfield.

All that being said, one Arsenal star didn’t impress for his country over the weekend.