Dean Smith explains how Kai Havertz tactically unlocked PSV for Arsenal

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Former Premier League manager Dean Smith has explained the key tactical role Kai Havertz played for Arsenal against PSV Eindhoven. 

Arsenal got their first Champions League campaign since 2017 off to a flying start with a 4-0 demolition of PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday evening.

Mikel Arteta made a few changes to his starting XI from the one that took to the field against Everton last time out in the Premier League. Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus all came in to the team.

Whilst Havertz wasn’t able to get on the scoresheet himself, the 39-cap Germany international produced an efficient performance. He brought extra physical presence to the middle of the park, made intelligent runs, and showed some neat touches in the final third.

Dean Smith, who has previously been at the helm for Norwich City, Aston Villa, and Leicester City in the Premier League, has noted a very specific job that Havertz did to help Arsenal unlock the Dutch side. 

As quoted by BBC Sport, Smith said that Arteta “knew that PSV are a man-orientated team and that they would come to have a go. Kai Havertz just took holding midfielder Jerdy Schouten into the back four and with their front five pressing, there was a big space in midfield. They did that really well and I was really impressed.”

Havertz growing into Arsenal role

Havertz has had a few struggles in adapting to life at the Emirates Stadium since joining Arsenal from Chelsea in a £65 million move this summer. Some of his displays for the Gunners so far have lacked confidence. 

However, the 24-year-old looked better against PSV and fulfilled a vital function for his team. Arteta will be delighted with the disciplined and mature nature of the German’s performance.

According to WhoScored’s statistics, Havertz won three aerial duels, completed 92.6% of his passes, played one key pass, and made four tackles. It was a fine all-round performance as part of the Arsenal midfield trio, and Havertz even looked impressive when he took on a more advanced role late in the game. 

With his positional play and understanding of the game, Havertz helped Arsenal maintain control of this match and took a big step towards establishing himself at the club.