Kai Havertz has shared what happened behind the scenes at Arsenal that helped him overcome his early-season slump last year.
The German international was a surprise signing for the Gunners last summer as Arsenal shelled out £65m to sign Havertz from Chelsea, with the 24-year-old attacking midfielder having a mixed spell in west London.
After a rough start to life with Arsenal, it looked like Mikel Arteta had landed on his first big-money flop since returning to north London as manager, with Havertz struggling to adapt at the Emirates Stadium.
Yet the forward eventually found his feet, and Havertz has now shared what happened for this change to come about.
Havertz says confidence boost and familiarity lead to Arsenal comeback
Speaking to RAN, Havertz revealed how a boost in confidence and time with his new teammates was club to finding his best form, with the German ending the season with 14 goals and seven assists in all competitions.
Havertz said when asked about his change of fortune at Arsenal: “It wasn’t easy for me at the beginning. I came from Chelsea, one of Arsenal’s biggest rivals, for a big transfer fee, to a club that had an outstanding season last year.
“Fitting in again was very, very difficult for me personally. Once I got to know the people a bit and got used to the whole system, it became easier for me. It was also always clear to me that at some point the sun would shine again and that is what happened.
“I gained more confidence and also decided games. And of course that’s always good. That’s why I love it at Arsenal and feel right at home there.”
Havertz will want to do even better next season in north London
Despite missing out on the Premier League title, it’s been quite the first year at Arsenal for Havertz, who has become a fan favourite and looks settled at his new home.
And next season will see Havertz wanting to push himself even further, with the Premier League title and another deep run in the UEFA Champions League on the agenda for the Gunners.
Indeed, Havertz knows he has all the quality in the world to become one of the best players in the Arsenal squad, and next season will be a huge one for the German international.