+18 | Play Responsibly | T&C's Apply | Commercial Content | Publishing Principles
Kai Havertz Arsenal 2023-24Getty Images

'I clearly see myself' - Kai Havertz makes Erling Haaland and Harry Kane comparison as he bids to become Arsenal's No.9

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Havertz ready to play as No.9 for Arsenal and Germany
  • Drew comparisons with Haaland and Kane
  • Scored 14 goals in debut campaign with the Gunners
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Germany international was off to a rocky start after moving to Arsenal from Chelsea last summer. However, he slowly played his way into form as the season progressed and finally ended up scoring 14 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions and providing seven assists.

  • Advertisement
  • GFX Erling Haaland Harry Kane Getty/GOAL

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    After an impressive debut season under Mikel Arteta, Havertz is now confident to deliver for his country at the upcoming Euro 2024. The forward claimed he is ready to be the target man for Germany, although he does not see himself as a traditional No. 9. He even cited Erling Haaland and Harry Kane's examples while explaining how the role of a striker has evolved in modern football.

  • WHAT KAI HAVERTZ SAID

    Speaking to Welt am Sonntag (via TZ), the 24-year-old said, "I clearly see myself as a number 9 in the national team – and that’s what I am now at Arsenal. But I don’t mean the classic nine. Where else are they available? Even Erling Haaland or Harry Kane, who you immediately think of, don’t just stand in the box and wait for the finish. The players who are waiting there no longer exist in modern football.

    "I am someone who enjoys letting go and making deep runs. But it is also clear to me that I will be measured by goals."

  • Kai Havertz Germany 23032024Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR KAI HAVERTZ?

    The former Bayer Leverkusen star will be next seen in action on June 3 as Julian Nagelsmann's side take on Ukraine in an international friendly.