Arsenal: Kai Havertz thriving in new 'pocket position' as he relishes Porto return
Kai Havertz says he is enjoying his new “pocket position” at Arsenal, as he aims to make more memories in Porto this week.
The Gunners travel to Portugal for the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday night.
The Estadio do Dragao holds a special place in Havertz’s heart, after he scored the winner there for Chelsea in the 2021 Champions League final.
Havertz led the line for the Blues in that win over Manchester City, but at Arsenal he has mainly been used in midfield.
The 24-year-old had a slow start following his £65million move from Chelsea last summer, but he scored in Saturday’s 5-0 win at Burnley and now has six goals to his name this season.
“I think this pocket position suits me quite well, but wherever I play I’ll give everything,” said Havertz. “I’ve said it many times, but I feel comfortable wherever. I like to be on the pitch and I am not a player who is just in one position.
“I like to switch, to be flexible, and I think that is one of my strengths. I’m going to give everything wherever I play — that is the most important thing.”
Arsenal head to Porto in fine form, after their victory at Burnley made it five wins on the spin.
The Gunners are second in the Premier League, just two points off leaders Liverpool, and their title hopes were boosted after City drew 1-1 with Chelsea, although Pep Guardiola’s side will leapfrog them if they beat Brentford on Tuesday night in their game in hand.
Arsenal’s attention, though, is on Wednesday’s game at Porto, and Havertz is hoping for another memorable night there.
“For me, it will always be a nice memory, so I am looking forward to playing there again,” he said.
“I have good memories there and things that are always going to be in my heart in the future.
“Every team that plays in the Champions League wants to win it. In the end, that’s the goal of every team.”