Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said “time will tell” when it comes to Kai Havertz’s best position after the German international made his highly-anticipated debut for the Gunners on Thursday night.
Havertz, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea last month for a reported £65 million, was introduced as a second-half substitute in the Gunners’ 1-1 draw against German second division side Nurnberg.
The 24-year-old played in a central midfield role, but Arteta hinted that he could also be deployed as a false nine or on the wing.
“We have to try to find the best position for him,” Arteta said after the match. “He can play in different positions. He can play as a number 10, he can play as a false nine, he can play wide. He has the ability to do that.
“We will have to try to find the best position for him and the best way to use his qualities.”
Havertz himself said that he was happy to play in any position that helped the team.
“I am here to help the team,” he said. “I am here to play and to win games. I don’t mind where I play.”
Arteta will have plenty of time to experiment with Havertz’s position in the coming weeks and months. The Gunners have a busy pre-season schedule, with games against Barcelona and MLS All-Stars to come.
The Premier League season starts on August 5, and Havertz will be hoping to make a big impact in his first season at Arsenal.
