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‘Not really’… Mikel Arteta says 24-year-old Arsenal player just hasn’t changed

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has spoken about Kai Havertz’s upturn in form ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Wolves.

The Gunners boss, speaking to football.london, doesn’t believe that the Arsenal summer signing’s confidence has necessarily changed in the past week, but it has grown.

Havertz has needed some time to get up to speed following his £65million move to Arsenal from Chelsea.

Last weekend, the 24-year-old finally scored his first goal from open play for the Gunners. He netted the winner against Brentford.

Arsenal FC v RC Lens: Group B - UEFA Champions League 2023/24
Photo by James whitehead/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Havertz then made it two goals in consecutive appearances when he opened the scoring against Lens in the Champions League in midweek.

He was on hand to bundle home from close range – via the underside of Bryce Samba’s arm – following a Gabriel Jesus header into his path.

Arsenal star Kai Havertz has ‘been very positive’ throughout

Havertz will now fancy his chances of starting again as Arsenal welcome Wolves to the Emirates Stadium in the 3pm GMT kickoff.

When asked whether he had noticed a difference in the player behind the scenes, Arteta replied: “Not really.

“He’s been very positive, he’s been so influential in a good way to his team-mates and the team.

“But obviously his confidence grows, he’s really looking forward to something.

“When you feel loved, when you feel respected and when you feel admired, things are much easier.

“Your energy is better, your body language is better and I think that is the way he’s felt in the last few days.”

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It’s good to hear that Havertz has maintained his good spirits throughout this time and is remaining with his feet on the ground now his form has improved and the goals are coming.

Some players hit the ground running, while others need a little more time to get up to speed.

The Germany international is a quality player and he’s certainly on the right track. It’ll be exciting to see how he continues to fare in red and white.

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