Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta Hails Kai Havertz’s Physical Transformation Ahead of Newcastle Clash
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Kai Havertz has undergone a remarkable physical transformation while sidelined with injury, according to reports from ESPN. The German midfielder has been out of action since February after tearing his hamstring during the Gunners’ warm-weather training break in Dubai. However, his rehabilitation progress has been impressive, and he is now in contention to return to the pitch for Sunday’s Premier League home game against Newcastle United.
Arteta has been effusive in his praise for Havertz’s dedication to his fitness regime, stating that he has “destroyed all the metrics we had in the gym for the last 10 years.” ESPN reports that Havertz has focused on building his strength and muscle mass during his rehabilitation, with some fans suggesting that he looked more muscular during an open training session at Emirates Stadium in midweek.
As ESPN notes, Havertz’s transformation is not just physical but also mental. Arteta believes that the midfielder’s hard work and dedication have been a significant boost to the team’s morale, with other players taking note of his efforts. The Arsenal manager said, “There’s been a transformation in his body. The last three years in his career have been so condensed that he hasn’t had time to do that, and this has been a window, and he really wanted to use it.”
Arteta also highlighted Havertz’s versatility as a player, stating that he can play as a No. 9, an attacking midfielder, and will be “super important for us as a team.” ESPN reports that Havertz is still Arsenal’s top goalscorer in the league with nine goals to his name so far. The German midfielder’s return to the pitch could be a significant boost to Arsenal’s chances of securing Champions League qualification, with the team looking to wrap up a top-four finish.
The news of Havertz’s potential return comes amid speculation about Arsenal’s transfer plans for the summer. ESPN reports that the team is interested in bringing in a new striker, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres, and Newcastle’s Alexander Isak all under consideration. However, Arteta remains confident in Havertz’s abilities, stating that he will play a crucial role in the team’s future plans.
As ESPN notes, Arteta believes that Havertz’s transformation is a testament to the team’s culture and the high standards set by the players. The Arsenal manager said, “For someone that is not in the team to have that mindset, the only thing he has done is raise the standards in the building because the other ones in the building who are injured were looking at him, ‘I’m going to look bad if I don’t do the same’ so that’s part of the culture.” With Havertz potentially set to return to the pitch, Arsenal fans will be eager to see the impact he can have on the team’s performance. According to ESPN, Arteta is optimistic about Havertz’s chances of making a significant contribution to the team’s success.
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