Mikel Arteta makes huge Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres claim as Arsenal plan clear

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is confident that Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz can play together in the same team after both players found the back of the net in their 3-0 friendly victory over Athletic Bilbao.

Arteta deployed new £64million striker Gyokeres from the start, and the Swede didn’t disappoint, scoring his first goal for the Gunners with a superbly executed header. Havertz began the match on the bench but was introduced in the 71st minute, later sealing Arsenal’s third and final goal by coolly slotting home under pressure following an assist from Bukayo Saka.

Following Gyokeres’ arrival, questions have arisen about Havertz’s role in the team – whether the German might be sidelined or relegated to a substitute role this season. However, post-match, Arteta was adamant that the two players could work well together, highlighting Havertz’s versatility and ability to also operate in midfield, reports the Mirror.

“They can play together or Kai can play in different positions,” the Spanish boss said. “It elevates the quality in the squad, the options we have in the team and the options to provide opposition with a lot of problems.”

Arteta went on to say that having multiple attacking options was a positive dilemma to have after going through last season without a recognised No 9. He said: “It’s great to see them both scoring and both of them in such good form. It’s a good problem to have.”

Havertz is eager to build momentum this season following his 2024-25 campaign being cut short due to injury. The German recognises he faces stiff competition after Arsenal’s substantial summer spending spree, which included £55million on Martin Zubimendi and a comparable amount on Noni Madueke.

Gyokeres is tipped to be the catalyst for Arsenal’s trophy ambitions this term following his remarkable individual season that yielded 54 goals in 52 appearances for Sporting CP. Despite Arsenal falling to a 3-2 defeat against Villarreal in their pre-season fixture in midweek, Arteta expressed satisfaction with his side’s display – particularly highlighting the contributions of both Gyokeres and Havertz whilst emphasising how the elevated standards will benefit the entire squad.

“I am very happy with what I see,” he said. “I think, individually, there was some big performances against a Champions League opponent. It’s a good feeling.

“That first goal is always very important and the way he (Gyokeres) took it as well, was really, really good. We are developing certain connections with the new players. It was very good.

“Kai came in and I think the goal he scored was top, as well. Raising the level of everybody is going to really help us, because at that level, we are going to need our very best from everybody.”