Kai Havertz has received his first Premier League start in a year, thanks to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. This decision comes as he has opted to bench captain Martin Ødegaard ahead of the match against Leeds United.
Additionally, Bukayo Saka sustained an injury during warmups and has been substituted in the starting lineup by Noni Madueke. Saka was seen favoring his groin as he exited the pitch before kick-off.
Arsenal aims to extend their four-point lead at the top of the table on Saturday, with Arteta reintroducing Viktor Gyökeres as the starting striker, replacing Gabriel Jesus.
In midfield, the notable change is the inclusion of Havertz instead of Ødegaard, following Havertz’s impressive performance against Kairat in the Champions League on Wednesday, marking his return after a lengthy period on the sidelines.
ESPN sources confirm that Ødegaard is not injured, and this tactical decision has been made by Arteta.
Havertz, whose last league start for Arsenal was on February 2, 2025, takes the field in midfield alongside Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi, while Ødegaard and summer acquisition Eberechi Eze are seated on the bench.
In his Friday news conference, Arteta defended Ødegaard’s performance this season, noting he has scored only once in 24 appearances across all competitions.
“These are the numbers, but we must also present the full context,” Arteta stated.
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“He has played significantly fewer minutes than in any previous season due to three injury setbacks, which is the reality. We aim to enhance that; we want him to influence the game in ways that help us win. But I trust Martin’s work ethic every day, and I’m confident he will improve.”
When asked if Ødegaard tends to drop deeper than necessary, Arteta responded: “That’s part of his instinct, while mine is to do the opposite.
“However, we must also respect the skills and talents of our players, who should feel free in attack, especially to make the best decisions for the team.”
Information from ESPN’s James Olley contributed to this report.