In the summer of 2023, Kai Havertz joined Arsenal for a record-breaking transfer fee of £65 million, carrying with him high expectations from the fans. However, his start at the Emirates was far from smooth. After 20 matches, Havertz had not scored a goal, causing both him and the Arsenal coaching staff to worry.

Pressure mounts:

The immense pressure coupled with his inability to score goals caused Havertz to lose confidence. His performance on the pitch declined, directly affecting the team’s results. The pressure on the German striker grew heavier.

Liberating goal:

In October 2023, in a match against Bournemouth, Arsenal was awarded a penalty. Captain Martin Ødegaard took the initiative to ask Bukayo Saka about Havertz’s ability to take the penalty. Saka believed in his teammate and Havertz was given the chance. With composure and determination, Havertz deceived goalkeeper Neto to score his first goal for Arsenal, marking a turning point in his career at the Emirates.

Goal-scoring explosion:

That liberating goal seemed to lift the weight off Havertz’s shoulders. He regained his confidence and played explosively in the following period. Since the Bournemouth match, Havertz has scored and assisted a total of 17 goals for Arsenal in all competitions, playing a key role in the Gunners’ success.

Conclusion:

Kai Havertz’s story is a testament to the never-give-up spirit and the importance of trust. Thanks to the encouragement of his teammates and his own determination, Havertz has overcome the difficult period and become one of Arsenal’s most important players.

The article can explore the following aspects:

• Interview Havertz about the difficult period and how he overcame it.
• Analyze the role of Ødegaard and Saka in helping Havertz regain his form.
• Compare Havertz’s performance before and after the penalty goal.
• Assess the importance of Havertz to Arsenal.