Arteta fires back at Arsenal fans that are unfairly hating on Kai Havertz

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has come to the defense of their new signing Kai Havertz amidst criticism from fans. The 24-year-old midfielder joined Arsenal from Chelsea in the summer transfer window for a fee of £65 million. However, Havertz has received massive criticism from fans in the past few weeks for his performances on the pitch.

In a recent interview with The Telegraph, Arteta expressed his support for Havertz and highlighted the qualities he brings to the team. “I will tell you what I feel about him. That I love him and I see his qualities every single day in training,” said Arteta. “His work-rate is excellent, a lot of things that he has brought to the team are so good. At the moment what is missing is to put the ball in the net and to arrive on those [chances], to have a different impact on the game.”

Arteta acknowledged that Havertz’s performances have not been up to expectations in terms of goal-scoring, but he believes that with the support and love from the fans, the midfielder can reach his full potential. “It is difficult to ask more of our supporters and our people, but my feeling is: give him love and we will get the best out of him,” Arteta stated. “I think we have some very beautiful examples in the last years with players that we have given a lot of support, and they have felt that love and they just exploded.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 12: Kai Havertz of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on August 12, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Havertz’s performances have been a cause for concern for Arsenal fans, especially considering the hefty price tag attached to his transfer. However, Arteta remains confident in the midfielder’s abilities and believes that with time and support, he will be able to make a significant impact on the team.

Arsenal currently sits in fifth position in the Premier League after three league games, having won twice and drawn once. Their next match will be against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, and Havertz is expected to feature once again. Arteta will be hoping that his message of support for the midfielder resonates with the fans and that they continue to back him as he looks to find his form.

As Arsenal’s season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Havertz responds to the criticism and whether he can prove his worth on the pitch. With the support of his manager and teammates, there is still hope that he can fulfill his potential and become a key player for Arsenal in the seasons to come.