Soon at Arsenal, Viktor Gyokeres will have competition as Kai Havertz nears his return from injury.
It’s expected that Havertz will return after the international break, which is also when Gyokeres is set to be fit again.
It will be interesting to see how the pair compete with each other, as last season, Havertz was Mikel Arteta’s primary option in the centre-forward role.
The dynamic has now changed, and while Havertz is thrilled to have Gyokeres at Arsenal, the German will have his sights set on the new signing’s place in the starting XI.
Danny Murphy says Viktor Gyokeres is better at pressing than Kai Havertz
What we already know about the two players is that Gyokeres has something his competitor doesn’t, as Havertz simply isn’t a natural goalscorer.
It’s exactly why the Gunners spent £63m to sign the Swede from Sporting CP in the summer; however, goalscoring isn’t the only advantage that the 27-year-old is said to have over Arteta’s 2023 signing.
Speaking on talkSPORT, pundit Danny Murphy waxed lyrical about the Arsenal squad, focusing on the mentality each player shows.
Murphy credited Gyokeres’ role in Arsenal’s sensational current run of form.
“Gyokeres has made a big difference in terms of the press,” Murphy said, before bringing Havertz into the conversation.
“He’s better at it than Havertz, more tenacious in his press, he’s a big lump, he gets after people, harasses people.”
Being described as a ‘big lump’ isn’t the most flattering description of the Sweden international, but when it comes to praise about Gyokeres’ work rate, there’s nothing to argue.
Now that Arteta has the goalscorer he pleaded so long for, many are wondering what Havertz’s role will be, but as his return nears, it’s becoming clearer.
Havertz will solve two of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad issues
Arsenal’s squad depth is tremendous, but it’s not entirely faultless, even though it seems that way.
Fortunately, two of the areas that could do with additional support can be resolved simply by Havertz’s return.
In central midfield, specifically the number eight role, Havertz’s days at Bayer Leverkusen prove what an asset he can be.
With Gabriel Jesus still out and Viktor Gyokeres the main man, the German’s incoming assistance up top will also be a breath of fresh air.
It will be a delight to have Havertz back, who contributed to 12 of Arsenal’s Premier League goals last term.
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