What Kai Havertz has already done to terrorise Man United with familiar Arsenal tactic

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Arsenal are preparing for their blockbuster Premier League meeting with Manchester United.

All eyes will be on the Emirates on Wednesday night as the Gunners host Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils. 

Mikel Arteta played down seeking revenge on Amorim, who got the better of the Spaniard in 2023 when he was Sporting CP boss.

Paul Merson is optimistic that Arsenal will beat Man United, who will arrive in N5 with confidence after beating Everton 4-0 on match day 13.

• READ MORE: Arsenal vs Man United: Free live stream details, team news, injury updates, predictions and more

How Kai Havertz punished Man United in May

While United are feeling confident, there’s no denying that Arsenal will be more comfortable ahead of Wednesday night’s clash.

The Gunners have lost just once at home to United over the past nine years however, there’s work to be done to ensure three points remain in Islington.

Arsenal last faced the Red Devils competitively in May 2024, the penultimate game of the season, resulting in a 1-0 win at Old Trafford. 

Kai Havertz starred at Old Trafford on the day, setting up Leandro Trossard’s match-winner and exposing Casemiro.

Havertz only needed 38 touches to get under United’s skin, as highlighted by him winning eight duels, more than any other player on the pitch.

Arteta will hope for more of the same from the German when the Gunners’ rivals head to the Emirates, with a likelihood that the 25-year-old will do the same again.

Arsenal need Havertz’s aerial strength  

Havertz’s aerial presence is a gift for Arsenal and Arteta certainly likes his players to take advantage of the forward’s height and strength.

It’s an ironic plus side of the former Chelsea man’s game, given that Michael Bridges branded Havertz ‘weak’ earlier this season.

United should be wary that what hurt them in May could repeat itself, as no player of either club has won more aerial duels than Havertz this season in the Premier League. 

With 39 aerial wins, the Germany international ranks in the top 10 successful players in the air so far this term. 

While the versatile forward’s presence in duels is one of his strong points, there are other reasons for Wednesday’s visitors to approach him with caution.

Bukayo Saka has backed Havertz to outscore him this season, something the German could do considering he’s currently level on Premier League goals with his teammate after 13 played.

From goal threat to aerial threat, Havertz is one to watch as Arsenal aim to take three points to dent Amorim’s encouraging start.