Kai Havertz had been grappling with a goal drought in several games, but his teammates devised an ingenious solution to break that spell and give him a positive beginning at his new club, Arsenal.
In an inspiring demonstration of team solidarity, Arsenal’s players devised a creative strategy to help their struggling teammate, Kai Havertz, as they rallied together to uplift his spirits. This act ended Havertz’s dry spell and exemplified the true essence of teamwork and camaraderie that defines a successful football club like Arsenal.
Odegard requests Jesus to offer a penalty to Havertz
Kai Havertz has struggled till now in the Arsenal shirt, without scoring a goal in ten matches. Hence, when a penalty opportunity came, the German professional rose to the occasion to extend the team’s lead. Though it was not entirely his place to take a penalty, as there are individuals on the team with that responsibility.
Martin Odegaard’s intervention changed the narrative. The Arsenal captain displayed exceptional skills and leadership qualities as Arsenal defeated Bournemouth on Saturday. The Gunners’ captain engaged in a friendly conversation with Gabriel Jesus, encouraging him to let Havertz take it, and he did, netting his team’s second penalty and creating a heartwarming moment on the field.
Also, It was quite easy, handing over penalty duty to Havertz because the typical penalty takers, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, both of whom had already found the back of the net in the first half, stepped aside for the Gunners’ second penalty of the afternoon. Kai Havertz stepped up to the spot and successfully made it 3-0.
Kai Havertz shares emotional message after scoring first Arsenal goal
In his tenth game across all competitions since transferring from Chelsea for a hefty £65 million during the summer, Havertz confidently placed the ball into the net from the penalty spot, extending his team’s lead to 3-0. This happened just eight minutes into the second half, following a reckless foul by Ryan Christie on Martin Odegaard in the 53rd minute.
Before this momentous occasion in his Arsenal career, Kai Havertz had struggled to have an impact since moving to London. Speaking on Havertz’s first Arsenal goal, Mikel Arteta believes it will be a positive turning point for the player.
“We have all tried to give him support and the right tools. He’s doing so many great things. It was about that moment that was the question that had to be answered, and he has done it,” Gunners boss Arteta said.
“It will change everything. After everything he’s been through in the last few weeks, that moment is worth all of it, so I’m really happy for him.”
Solid team performance. Appreciate all the support today from my teammates and the travelling fans. Means a lot ❤️ #Together pic.twitter.com/4GbySF03B0
— Kai Havertz (@kaihavertz29) September 30, 2023
Following his inaugural goal for Arsenal, fans at the Vitality Stadium displayed their unwavering support for the versatile star by creating a new chant in his honour. Havertz expressed his gratitude to the dedicated travelling fans for their tremendous support. On X, the German professional posted, “Solid team performance. Appreciate all the support today from my teammates and the travelling fans. Means a lot #together.”
Declan Rice has also congratulated Havertz and commended the team for their act of kindness towards Kai Havertz, giving him the penalty.
