Mikel Arteta insisted he still “loves” Kai Havertz at the end of a nightmare week for the German in which he missed excellent chances in two set defeats.
Havertz missed a free header as Arsenal lost 2-0 against Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, followed by another poor performance in front of goal as Manchester United knocked the Gunners out of the FA Cup on penalties.
Arsenal’s struggles to score from open play this season have been well-publicised, with Havertz’s status as Arteta’s preferred striker – the only natural option available after Gabriel Jesus injury – raised significant questions of a large number Arsenal fans.
Arteta, however, remains a strong supporter of Havertz. Asked what he said to the German after the United defeat, he replied: “To him and to all of them: that I love them, that we all love them. Individually and collectively they are a joy.
“What this team produces every three days is incredible no matter what happens. I’m not going to lose sight of that, because of a result or two because we didn’t deserve it. What we can do better, let’s try to do it. But it’s hard to achieve, it’s the emotional part, and also something to do with self-confidence.”
Arteta was once again asked if Arsenal could be looking for a new striker in January, but continued to reject calls to enter the transfer market.
“I understand that [question]but I couldn’t love our players more and we are very focused on the players we have to be at the highest level,” he insisted. “The rest is not in our hands, not in my hands.”
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