Mikel Arteta has sought to reassure Kai Havertz over his game-time at Arsenal after Viktor Gyokeres’ move to the Emirates Stadium.
Sweden international Gyokeres completed a £64m move to Arsenal last month and scored his first goal for the club in Saturday’s pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao.
Gyokeres’ header, provided by an excellent cross from Martin Zubimendi, put Arsenal ahead and the hosts doubled their lead shortly after through Bukayo Saka.
Havertz came off the bench to add Arsenal’s third late on as Arteta’s side ended a somewhat worrying pre-season schedule with an impressive and deserved win.
Ex-Chelsea man Havertz was Arsenal’s first-choice striker for much of last season but Gyokeres looks set to take that slot following his move from Sporting.
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The 27-year-old enjoyed two prolific seasons at the Portuguese giants, scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances.
Gyokeres’ arrival will put pressure on Havertz but Arteta says the German can play in the same team as Arsenal’s marquee summer signing or adopt a different role in the side.
Before his 2023 move to north London, Havertz played across the front line for Chelsea and his national team Germany.
Asked about the competition Havertz will face following Gyokeres’ arrival, Arteta said after the Bilbao win: ‘They can play together or Kai can play in different positions.
‘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.
‘It’s great to see them both scoring and both of them in such good form. It’s a good problem to have.’
Speaking about Arsenal’s win more generally, Arteta added: ‘I am very happy with what I see.
‘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.’
Mikel Arteta ‘open’ to more Arsenal transfers
Arteta hopes Gyokeres is the final piece of the jigsaw for an Arsenal team that have finished second for three years in a row.
As well as signing Gyokeres, Arsenal have brought Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera and Kepa Arrizabalaga to the Emirates Stadium.
Asked whether the club were still pursuing other deals in the transfer market, Arteta said: ‘Let’s see what happens, in terms of where the squad is in the next few weeks.
‘But, we are actively looking at options. As well, there are a few players that, maybe, they have to leave as well. So, we will be open to see what happens.’
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