Mikel Arteta has praised Kai Havertz for his pivotal role in leading Arsenal to “new heights” after the player scored and assisted two goals during the 3-2 Champions League victory over Kairat at the Emirates Stadium.
This match marked Havertz’s first start in 357 days following surgeries on his hamstring and knee. He assisted Viktor Gyokeres’ opening goal just two minutes into the match.
Jorginho equalized for Kairat with a penalty shortly thereafter before Havertz scored his first goal in nearly a year, putting Arsenal back in front.
Gabriel Martinelli added a third goal from a pass by Havertz with nine minutes left in the first half. Ricardinho managed a late consolation goal for the Kazakh side during stoppage time, but Arsenal secured their perfect group stage record with eight wins from eight matches.
Havertz was substituted at halftime as Arsenal manages his return to full fitness. Arteta commented on his first-half performance, saying, “This displays will boost his confidence and bring joy and energy to the team.”
“The squad understands Kai’s significance and how he can elevate our performance,” Arteta continued. “His ability to deliver such a performance after a lengthy absence was impressive. He displayed outstanding quality, connecting well with the team, scoring, and assisting. It was a really positive showing.”
Regarding the decision to substitute Havertz, 26, Arteta explained, “He’s fine. It was our plan for him to play the first 45 minutes. Of course, he wanted to continue.”
Arsenal’s win secured their first-place finish in the league phase after a perfect eight-game run. Arteta’s team, which reached the semi-finals last season, will return to face one of either Atalanta, Bayer Leverkusen, Olympiacos, or Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 in March.
Arteta added, “I am incredibly proud of the players and our success in the opening stage of the competition. Winning eight consecutive games in the Champions League is no easy feat, and we’ve seen how it can affect other teams. We must recognize that. Now, we shift focus, take time to reflect, and prepare for our next opponent, approaching each game one at a time.”
Arsenal will next play in the Premier League when they visit Leeds at Elland Road on Saturday. Despite losing to Manchester United last Sunday, the Gunners maintain a four-point lead at the top of the table.