Kai Havertz given biggest backing yet as Arsenal trophy ambitions come into sight

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Kai Havertz has been backed by Arsenal teammate Gabriel Martinelli after scoring against Bayer Leverkusen

Gabriel Martinelli explained why “everyone” at Arsenal wants to play with Kai Havertz after his goal against Bayer Leverkusen. The German international stepped up to score from the penalty spot more than five years after he left the club to join Chelsea.

His Brazilian teammate could not have spoken more highly of him, citing how he has the backing and faith of the entire squad. “He has a big personality,” Martinelli said. “He is one of the penalty-takers in the team, and everyone trusts him. We are happy for him to be back and scoring an amazing goal today.”

Havertz’s return means that Viktor Gyokeres has some genuine competition after both the German and Gabriel Jesus missed so much of the campaign. Martinelli explained that the trio of forwards all add a variety of different qualities to the attack, but that Havertz’s versatility is what makes him valuable in creating space for the side.

“We have three number nines, who are really good,” he said. “Each one has their own way of playing - and we trust all of them. Kai is a player that we love. Everyone likes to play with him as well. Hopefully, he can score many more goals for us.”

“Everyone is different,” Martinelli added. “He can play as an attacking midfielder as well, so he likes to drop and play in midfield.

“Sometimes it is good for us because he makes that movement, and it opens up that space for us.”

Havertz, outside of Kepa Arrizabalaga, is the only player in the Gunners squad to lift the Champions League trophy.

Martinelli, however, believes that while the German certainly brings his quality, all the options available to Mikel Arteta provide a headache in terms of selection. “He has won it,” Martinelli said. "It is a good headache for the manager.

"He knows what he does, and we trust him. Whoever he wants to play is going to do well.”