Arsenal forward Kai Havertz earned glowing praise from national team manager Julian Nagelsmann after Germany’s win over Hungary.
It’s been a statement year for Havertz, who made the switch from Chelsea to Arsenal last summer.
Things didn’t start as expected for the 25-year-old in North London, as he struggled to find his feet in Mikel Arteta’s system.
Since establishing his role under Arteta, Havertz hasn’t looked back, shining at both domestic and international level.
Julian Nagelsmann praises Kai Havertz after Germany’s win over Hungary
Havertz played a new role in Germany’s recent win over Hungary, featuring in central attacking midfield during his side’s 5-0 victory.
The Arsenal striker netted from the spot to continue his form in front of goal in 2024, where he’s scored 14 goals in competitive fixtures for club and country.
- READ MORE: What German media are saying about Arsenal star Kai Havertz after Germany’s 5-0 win vs Hungary
Given how things started in North London for Havertz, it’s encouraging to see where his form is now, with national team boss Julian Nagelsmann praising the forward’s improvement.
Speaking to the media after Germany’s victory, relayed by journalist Kerry Hau, Nagelsmann applauded the ‘step forward’ that the Arsenal ace has taken in recent years.
“Kai has made a big step forward in the last two years. He has the potential to be world class in many positions.
“He runs an incredible amount and has become very clever. Sometimes he lacks a bit of luck when it comes to finishing.
“The co-captaincy is good for him. He is a smart person, very reflective, very modest. I hope that he continues to believe in himself.”
Nagelsmann handed Havertz a leadership role in the German national team, telling of how highly rated the versatile forward is at international level.
Mikel Arteta has got the best out of Havertz at Arsenal
Havertz arrived at Arsenal lacking confidence and unsure of the role that would suit him best however, things quickly turned around for the forward as a result of Arteta’s persistence.
The Spaniard stuck with Havertz despite his questionable form at the start of his career at the Emirates, prevailing to be the correct decision as he went on to identify the German’s best role.
Since locking the German down to the striker role, Arsenal have reaped the benefits of the 25-year-old playing with confidence and full backing from the manager, possessing a level of belief that has taken his game to the next level.
Havertz arrived in England from Bayer Leverkusen as one of the most in-form midfielders in the Bundesliga yet was utilised as a striker for Chelsea, who struggled to strike consistency with their player.
Similar happened at Arsenal, with the difference being Arteta’s persistence, almost forcing Havertz to become a clinical figure fuelled by confidence and the adoration of supporters.
Now, the Germany star is benefitting from his form in North London on the international stage, as Nagelsmann’s praise only reinforces the progression seen in Havertz’s game in recent years.
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