Mikel Arteta hits back at Kai Havertz abuse after Arsenal star’s FA Cup struggles – he thinks it’s a ‘serious matter’

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Arsenal are in a difficult moment after back-to-back cup defeats.

The Gunners suffered a devastating loss to Manchester United on penalties at the Emirates in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon, just days after losing to Newcastle in the EFL Cup.

Tottenham await in the North London Derby on Wednesday night, in what will be a crucial fixture, with Mikel Arteta looking to reverse Arsenal’s fortunes.

Gabriel Jesus is out for several months after sustaining a knee injury in the clash against United, adding to the North Londoners’ extensive list of issues.

Arsenal are in desperate need of a positive outing against their bitter rivals, and will need top scorer Kai Havertz to be at his best to do so.

Mikel Arteta hits out at Kai Havertz’ abuse

Havertz received scathing reviews for his performance against the Red Devils.

The German missed two guilt-edged opportunities and was the only player to miss a penalty in the shootout.

While criticism of his display was certainly justified, some online resorted to sending nasty and abusive messages to Havertz’ partner.

Speaking in his press conference on Tuesday morning on this abuse, Arteta condemned the actions of these people on social media.

The Spaniard said: “It’s incredible honestly. We have to really do something about it, because accepting this I think has terrible consequences.

“It’s so cynical, so dependent to an action.

“On the 27th December at home, we win 1-0 and Kai Havertz scores a goal, the whole stadium is singing the Waka Waka. Guys, what is the perspective?

“Everyone is responsible for the narrative. That is a really serious matter. It affects him, it affects me.”

• READ MORE: Mikel Arteta breaks silence on Gabriel Jesus injury as Arsenal hit with crisis scenario

Kai Havertz remains Arsenal’s most prolific player

Havertz received a 1/10 for his showing against United, and while there was no doubt that he didn’t perform well, he remains Arsenal’s most prolific player this term.

Netting 12 goals in all competitions, three more than Bukayo Saka, his movement and ability to find himself in goal-scoring positions is a useful asset.

If he can start converting some of his chances at a slightly more reliable rate, then he could still finish the season with a very respectable tally.

The Gunners will likely dip into the market to address their issues, but they’ll need a fit, firing and confident Havertz to achieve anything this campaign, with Arteta’s other attackers struggling to find the back with any consistency whatsoever.