The fortunes of Mauricio Pochettino’s team and Arsenal could not have been more different on the night in question, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football. Mikel Arteta’s bold decisions as manager have often drawn mixed reactions, with some signings raising eyebrows among supporters. However, Arteta has a knack for proving his detractors wrong, and the acquisition of Kai Havertz from Chelsea in the summer has proven to be a decisive move.
Initially met with skepticism from Arsenal fans, Arteta’s decision has been vindicated as Havertz has flourished under his guidance. Chelsea, who finished in the bottom half of the Premier League last season, were quick to part ways with Havertz, but their decision has come back to haunt them.
Havertz’s performance against Chelsea was particularly poignant, with the home fans ironically chanting ‘£60 million down the drain.’ However, Glenn Hoddle believes that Havertz is now playing at his absolute best, proving the transformative power of confidence.
Hoddle praised Havertz’s elegance on the pitch, highlighting his ability to not only make runs into the penalty box but also link up play effectively. The German international’s confidence was evident in his goalscoring exploits against his former club.
Havertz’s success serves as a testament to Arteta’s unwavering belief in his abilities, despite initial criticism. The 24-year-old has now scored 11 Premier League goals and provided five assists, demonstrating his versatility by playing in various positions.
Havertz’s resurgence has silenced his critics and justified Arteta’s decision to bring him to Arsenal. The German international’s performances are a reminder of the transformative power of confidence and a testament to Arteta’s astute player acquisitions.
