Kai Havertz Could Fill Arsenal’s Midfield Void Against Tottenham as Arteta Faces Selection Challenge

Three games into the Premier League season, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta finds himself facing an unexpected dilemma ahead of the North London Derby. What started as a promising campaign with several exciting summer signings, including Mikel Merino and the loan acquisition of Raheem Sterling, has quickly turned into a challenge due to injuries and suspensions. With Declan Rice serving a suspension following a red card against Brighton and Merino sidelined, Arteta is forced to rethink his midfield setup ahead of the crucial clash with Tottenham.

The most pressing question is: Who will step into Arsenal’s midfield alongside Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard? One potential, albeit unconventional, solution might come from Kai Havertz, a player whose role in the team could once again be reshaped.

Midfield Crisis Ahead of a Key Derby

Arsenal’s summer transfer window appeared to equip the team with the depth needed for a challenging season. The arrivals of players like Mikel Merino were supposed to bolster Arteta’s options, giving the team the flexibility to deal with a variety of opponents. But as fate would have it, injuries and suspensions have forced Arteta’s hand much sooner than expected.

With Rice unavailable for selection and Merino out of contention, Arteta’s preferred midfield trio has been disrupted. Thomas Partey and captain Martin Odegaard are certain starters, but the third midfield slot has become a significant question mark. Arteta must now consider his options carefully, and among the more intriguing possibilities is Havertz, a player who joined Arsenal with high expectations but has seen his role evolve.

Kai Havertz’s Arsenal Journey So Far

When Havertz first arrived at Arsenal, many expected him to play a versatile role across the midfield and forward line. Initially deployed in midfield, Havertz struggled to find his rhythm, and critics were quick to point out his inconsistencies in this position. He was moved to a more advanced role as a forward, and the results were almost immediate.

Havertz thrived in this attacking role, contributing three goal involvements in Arsenal’s first three games this season, continuing a solid run of form from the previous campaign. His ability to operate effectively as a center-forward seemed to cement his place in the front line. In 16 appearances as a forward for Arsenal in the Premier League, Havertz has delivered an impressive nine goals and nine assists.

However, with Arsenal’s midfield depth stretched thin, Arteta may be forced to reconsider Havertz’s position, potentially moving him back into midfield for the upcoming derby.

Why Havertz Could Be the Answer in Midfield

Deploying Havertz in a deeper role is not without precedent. During pre-season, Havertz demonstrated his ability to contribute in midfield, delivering standout performances against attacking sides like Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen. In those matches, he showcased the physical presence and versatility that could serve Arsenal well in a high-intensity clash like the North London Derby.

Havertz’s tall frame, combined with his technical skill, gives him an edge in midfield battles, where his ability to disrupt opposition play and push forward could provide balance to Arsenal’s attack and defense. Furthermore, Havertz’s experience as a forward means he brings goal-scoring potential to the midfield, something that could be vital in unlocking Tottenham’s defense.

Havertz’s pre-season performances were not just about physicality; he also displayed a solid defensive work rate, showing that he can support his team in recovering possession and initiating counter-attacks. In a match where Arsenal will need to be sharp both in and out of possession, Havertz’s all-around ability could make him the ideal fit for Arteta’s midfield.

Arteta’s Midfield Options: Jorginho vs Havertz

Arteta still has other options for that crucial third midfield role. Jorginho, the experienced Italian midfielder, is a natural choice and has the composure and tactical awareness to anchor the team. However, Jorginho has yet to feature prominently for Arsenal this season, raising questions about whether he’s ready to start such a high-stakes match.

In contrast, Havertz has been a key part of Arsenal’s early-season success, albeit in a forward position. His familiarity with the intensity of Premier League matches this season, coupled with his ability to adapt to different roles, could make him a more dynamic option for the derby. Havertz also offers greater attacking intent than Jorginho, which could help Arsenal seize control of the game, especially in a contest likely to be fast-paced and fiercely contested.

The Tactical Gamble of Moving Havertz Back

Shifting Havertz back into midfield is not without risk. His previous struggles in that position during the start of his Arsenal career might make fans uneasy about his potential effectiveness. There is a reason Havertz was moved further forward, after all. However, in the absence of Rice and Merino, it may be the best option Arteta has at his disposal.

In a match as important as the North London Derby, versatility and unpredictability can be valuable weapons. Havertz brings both of those qualities, and Arteta might be tempted to roll the dice on the German international to help Arsenal maintain control in the midfield while also keeping the forward line active.

Conclusion: A Role Reversal That Could Pay Off

As Mikel Arteta prepares for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season, he faces a tough decision in how to structure Arsenal’s midfield. With Declan Rice suspended and Mikel Merino unavailable, Kai Havertz’s role could be about to change once again.

While Havertz has flourished as a forward, his performances in midfield during pre-season suggest that he has the potential to step up in the absence of Arsenal’s usual midfield options. The German international’s ability to adapt to different roles could prove crucial as Arteta seeks to navigate this challenging period.

In what promises to be a high-octane North London Derby, Havertz’s presence in midfield might just give Arsenal the edge they need. Whether it’s a temporary solution or the start of a new tactical evolution, Havertz could be the key to Arsenal’s success in this crucial early-season clash.