Viktor Gyokeres could now cause Mikel Arteta to revert to his original Kai Havertz tactic, it may create havoc

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Viktor Gyokeres was presented by Arsenal in Singapore before the 3-2 win against Newcastle, but it was Kai Havertz who stole the show in the opening 45 minutes.

The Germany international grabbed two assists in the space of just two minutes to put Arsenal 2-1 up against the Magpies, showing real inventiveness to create space in congested areas.

It was a display more akin to that of a creative midfielder than a natural striker, which opens the door for Mikel Arteta to now implement his initial plan for Kai Havertz.

Kai Havertz could now change position after arrival of Viktor Gyokeres

After many weeks – and a sum of £64m – were spent on bringing Viktor Gyokeres to the Emirates Stadium, it is safe to assume the Swede will start immediately.

However, it would be unfair of Arteta to drop Havertz following his superb performances so far this summer, where he has scored in a 3-0 win over Watford and also provided two smart assists against Newcastle.

Therefore, we believe the German could finally be moved into a No.8 role on the left side of a midfield trio.

The Athletic stated back in August 2023 that this was actually Arteta’s original plan for Havertz – who also looks noticeably bulkier this summer.

However, Gabriel Jesus suffered a knee injury shortly after the 26-year-old arrived in north London, prompting him to be moved up to the vacant No.9 position where he has now played most of his football for Arsenal.

Kai Havertz feeding Viktor Gyokeres could be a nightmare for opponents

Deploying Havertz as a No.8 behind Gyokeres – who Sporting CP fans still adore despite his messy exit – could well prove to be a masterstroke from Arteta if it happens.

Both of the Arsenal No.29’s assists against Newcastle came from areas where a left-sided No.8 would usually roam, showing great awareness to set up Mikel Merino with a deft flick, before displaying impressive athleticism to burst down the left and whip in a cross for the second goal, which Alex Murphy finished into his own net.

Therefore, it would not seem as if Havertz will get in the way of Gyokeres by operating in this No.8 role – where Ian Wright thinks he should play – should Arteta put it into action, and the duo can coexist in such a system.

Furthermore, Havertz previously rose to prominence as a wonderkid at Bayer Leverkusen whilst playing as an attacking midfielder, while Gyokeres can boast a status of being a proper finisher with 97 goals in 102 games for Sporting CP.

In that respect, this could be a match made in heaven for Arsenal, and the partnership Arteta wanted all along.