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Owen Hargreaves has expressed admiration for Kai Havertz, whom he believes receives too much criticism.
Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has come out in strong support of Kai Havertz, amid growing calls for Arsenal to sign a new striker before the January transfer window closes. Despite Havertz’s recent criticism over his performances, Hargreaves believes the German international is a valuable asset to Mikel Arteta’s side.
Havertz has scored 14 goals in all competitions this season, including a goal in Arsenal’s recent 3-0 Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb. However, his role as a striker has been questioned, with many fans and pundits suggesting that Arsenal needs a more prolific forward.
Hargreaves, speaking on TNT Sports, passionately defended Havertz, stating, “Everybody goes on about Kai being a centre forward. I love him, I know he’s not a striker but he gives you so much.” He highlighted Havertz’s great awareness, patience, and versatility, noting that he can play as a 10, on the right, or as a false nine.
While acknowledging that Havertz is not a traditional striker like Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen or Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Hargreaves insisted that Havertz is a brilliant option for Arsenal. “He shouldn’t be your main striker but he is a brilliant option. He can play on the right, he can play at 10 or play as a false nine and I think he does it brilliantly and I think he gets far too much criticism.”
Arsenal has been linked with several strikers, including Matheus Cunha from Wolves and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. However, with the window closing soon, it remains to be seen if the Gunners will secure a new forward.
Hargreaves’ support for Havertz comes at a crucial time for Arsenal as they aim to strengthen their squad and challenge for the Premier League title. The former England star’s endorsement highlights Havertz’s importance to the team and suggests that the criticism he faces may be unwarranted.
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