Arsenal attacker Kai Havertz play at left-back by Germany -scores just five minutes into the game.
Arsenal’s Kai Havertz, a player facing challenges, had a tumultuous evening when he found himself unexpectedly positioned as a left-back for Germany.
The decision by Germany’s manager, Julian Nagelsmann, to deploy the 24-year-old in a defensive role raised eyebrows ahead of the Saturday friendly against Turkey.
Despite the surprising assignment, Havertz quickly showcased his skills, scoring his 14th international goal just five minutes into the game.
After a well-executed build-up for the Euro 2024 hosts, the ball eventually reached former Manchester City winger Leroy Sane on the right side of the six-yard box.
Positioned there, the Bayern Munich ace passed the ball to Havertz, who had an easy tap-in to score the opening goal.
Despite Germany’s struggles, marked by their below-par performance over the past half-decade and the recent appointment of Nagelsmann in September, they found themselves trailing 2-1 as Turkey mounted a comeback in Berlin.
Fortunately for the home team, Borussia Dortmund striker Niclas Fullkrug quickly leveled the score shortly after halftime, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack.
The situation worsened for Havertz and his teammates when the 24-year-old was judged to have handled the ball inside their penalty area.
A swift VAR check resulted in Turkey being awarded a penalty, which Yusuf Sari successfully converted, bringing the score to 3-2, and that’s how the match concluded in the German capital.
There was a sense of astonishment at the Olympiastadion and on social media before the game started, as it was confirmed that Havertz would be taking up the left-back position.
Throughout his career, the former Chelsea player had primarily operated as either a midfielder or forward, but Nagelsmann had different tactical intentions.
“Kai won’t always be in this position,” the Germany manager, who was sacked by Bayern earlier this year, told RTL. “I have a great idea, he’s an exceptionally good footballer. This is a very good option. He won’t always play as a classic left-back.”
This turn of events in Havertz’s performance for the German national team may provide some inspiration for Mikel Arteta as he navigates the remainder of the season. Havertz has struggled to find his form since his summer transfer across London.
Despite a brief period of losing his place in Arteta’s preferred starting XI, the former Bayer Leverkusen wonderkid has been a regular starter in the absence of the injured Gunners captain, Martin Odegaard, in recent weeks.
However, Havertz has not contributed with a goal or assist since the 1-0 victory over City on October 8, leading to growing frustration among fans, especially considering the significant portion of the summer transfer budget invested in him.
Arsenal is set to return to Premier League action this Saturday, facing Brentford in a match that could be crucial for Havertz and the team’s performance.
Arsenal attacker Kai Havertz play at left-back by Germany -scores just five minutes into the game.