David Ornstein has shared what people are saying about Kai Havertz behind the scenes at Arsenal.
Speaking on The Athletic Football Podcast, the journalist claimed the summer signing has made quite the impression at London Colney.
Kai Havertz hasn’t exactly endured an ideal start at Arsenal after his £65 million move from Chelsea over the summer.
The 24-year-old has struggled to make an impact at the Emirates Stadium as Mikel Arteta bids to find his favoured position in the side. But the German midfielder popped up with a crucial goal on Saturday to hand the Gunners a 1-0 win at Brentford.
Havertz netted a last-minute header, which ultimately propelled Arsenal to the top of the Premier League table.
It’s fair to say the former Chelsea man has received plenty of criticism since his switch from Stamford Bridge. Indeed, Darren Bent recently claimed that Havertz simply hasn’t been good enough so far this season.
Yet, it seems that he has impressed people at Arsenal due to his desire to get his head down and work for a place in the side.
Ornstein on what people at Arsenal have said about Havertz
“There is a very different perception in the public to the reality in private,” The Athletic journalist said. “What people see of Havertz behind the scenes and how they are working to make him most effective.
“Don’t forget he is learning a new role, at a new club, with a new group of players who have pretty much solidified their way of playing last season and he comes into it.
“It is going to take some time. But I think everything I hear suggests that firstly he is ultra committed and dedicated and football obsessed to get this right and work with the coaches.
“And furthermore his attitude behind the scenes and the application that he puts in, his conduct – which is something I heard at Chelsea as well – is beyond reproach.
“He really is a very popular character with players and staff and away from the pitch throughout his career he has worked with physios for his recovery and condition and things like that.”
Havertz will certainly be hoping that Saturday’s goal helps to kickstart his season after a tough start to life at Arsenal.
We’ve seen glimpses of what the German can offer in midfield and his late run into the box on Saturday will have to become more of a regular occurrence.
But it’s brilliant to hear that Havertz has settled in at Arsenal behind the scenes and it’s clear he’s highly thought of at the club.