Charles Esther
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has backed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to prefer Kai Havertz over new signing Viktor Gyokeres in key matches this season.
Gyokeres Started Against Manchester United
Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting CP this summer, was given the nod ahead of Havertz in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United.
The Swedish striker struggled to make an impact, registering only 21 touches and failing to record a shot on target before being replaced by Havertz in the 60th minute.
Arsenal’s Narrow Win Over United
Despite Gyokeres’ quiet debut, Arsenal managed to secure a 1-0 victory thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s decisive goal.
The win gave Arteta’s side a positive start to the new campaign.
Havertz Expected to Return Against Liverpool
Carragher believes Gyokeres may soon drop to the bench in favour of Havertz, particularly in Arsenal’s upcoming high-profile clash against Liverpool later this month.
He said Havertz is too important in Arteta’s system to be overlooked for extended periods.
Carragher’s View on Arsenal’s Attack
“If I am being honest, I think they will go back to Havertz in the big games,” Carragher told Sky Sports.
He added that Gyokeres might feature and score goals against lesser opposition like Leeds, but Havertz is expected to start in bigger fixtures.
Havertz’s Role in Arteta’s System
According to Carragher, Arteta views Havertz as a crucial part of his tactical setup.
The former Liverpool defender insisted that Havertz’s experience and versatility make him a better option in matches against top rivals.
