Just days after heavy criticism from pundits, one Arsenal star has received powerful support from inside the dressing room.
And the message from the squad is clear: Kai Havertz still has their full trust.
Arsenal Dressing Room Rallies Behind Kai Havertz as Trophy Dreams Grow
Kai Havertz has received his strongest backing yet from inside the Arsenal squad after his crucial goal against Bayer Leverkusen, with teammate Gabriel Martinelli revealing just how highly the German international is valued by his teammates.
The Brazilian forward made it clear that Havertz’s importance goes far beyond scoring goals. According to Martinelli, the German’s personality, versatility, and intelligence on the pitch make him a player everyone in the team enjoys playing alongside.
His comments come at a pivotal moment for Arsenal, as the club pushes forward in both the Premier League title race and the Champions League knockout stages.
And inside the dressing room, the belief in Havertz appears stronger than ever.
A Crucial Goal in Europe
Havertz stepped up in a big moment during Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen, converting a late penalty to secure a valuable 1–1 draw away from home.
The goal carried extra emotional significance.
More than five years after leaving Leverkusen to join Chelsea, Havertz returned to face his former club — and delivered when Arsenal needed him most.
The pressure of the moment didn’t faze him.
He calmly placed the penalty into the corner, ensuring the tie remains finely balanced heading into the return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Martinelli’s Strong Praise
After the match, Gabriel Martinelli was quick to highlight Havertz’s importance to the team.
Speaking to reporters, the Brazilian forward described him as a player who commands trust from everyone in the 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.”
Those words reflect the respect Havertz has earned within the dressing room despite external criticism.
A Unique Role in Arsenal’s Attack
While Arsenal possess several attacking options, Havertz offers something slightly different compared to other forwards.
Martinelli explained that Arsenal’s attacking trio — Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, and Gabriel Jesus — all bring different qualities to the team.
“We have three number nines who are really good,” Martinelli said.
“Each one has their own way of playing — and we trust all of them.”
For Havertz, versatility is one of his biggest strengths.
Unlike traditional strikers, he often drops deeper into midfield to help build attacks and create space for teammates.
This movement can disrupt defensive structures and open opportunities for players like Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.
Tactical Flexibility Valued by Arteta
Havertz’s ability to operate in multiple positions is particularly valuable for Mikel Arteta’s tactical system.
The German international can play as:
a central striker
an attacking midfielder
a false nine dropping into deeper areas
This flexibility gives Arsenal multiple tactical options depending on the opponent.
Martinelli explained that Havertz’s movements often create space for other attackers.
“Sometimes it is good for us because he drops into midfield and it opens space for us,” he said.
Champions League Experience
Another key reason Havertz commands respect within the squad is his experience on the biggest stage.
Among Arsenal’s current players, he is one of the few who has already won the UEFA Champions League.
The German lifted the trophy with Chelsea, scoring the decisive goal in the 2021 final against Manchester City.
That experience brings valuable composure and leadership to a squad aiming to compete for major European honours.
A Selection Headache for Arteta
For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, the depth of attacking options now available creates a positive challenge.
With Havertz, Gyokeres, and Gabriel Jesus all competing for minutes, Arteta must carefully balance form, fitness, and tactical needs.
Martinelli believes the competition benefits the team.
“He has won it,” Martinelli said of Havertz’s Champions League experience.
“It is a good headache for the manager. He knows what he does, and we trust him. Whoever he chooses will do well.”
Arsenal’s Trophy Ambitions
Arsenal’s confidence is growing as the club competes on multiple fronts.
The Gunners remain firmly in the Premier League title race, continue their Champions League campaign, and still have opportunities in domestic competitions.
With a deeper squad and increased experience, many supporters believe this could be the season Arsenal finally end their long wait for major silverware.
For Kai Havertz, the backing from teammates may prove just as important as any goal.
Because in a team chasing trophies, belief inside the dressing room can be the difference between potential and success.
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