Over recent weeks, Kai Havertz has changed his fortunes at Arsenal and former Gunners star Emmanuel Petit credits Mikel Arteta for the turnaround.
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Petit says Havertz has answered back to criticsPraised Arteta for his man managementAttacker finding good run of form for ArsenalWHAT HAPPENED?
After moving to the Emirates for £65 million ($86 million) from Chelsea in the summer, the forward has taken some time to get used to his new surroundings but in recent weeks, he has begun to establish himself as a reliable scorer and provider for the Gunners. Petit feels that Arteta's man-management has paid off and that the coach's confidence in Havertz has helped the German improve.
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While speaking with , Petit said: "One thing I can say about Kai Havertz, is he has never given up. When he arrived at Arsenal, he had criticism from former players, pundits, fans and the media. Mikel Arteta has given him the confidence to play well, even when he was not performing well he would be on the pitch. The pressure on Havertz's shoulders has been taken away, the love and respect from his team-mates have been very important for a player like him, he can be very sensitive.
"At Chelsea, Havertz was clearly affected and he needed a positive environment. His team-mates have the confidence to give him the ball throughout a game, at Chelsea, the team didn't play fluidly so it stopped him getting on the ball. I don’t think he’s been amazing for Arsenal, but he has certainly improved and is playing with confidence now, and that says a lot about Arteta."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
As Arsenal begin their final leg of the season, they remain on top in the Premier League title race over Liverpool and Manchester City. The Gunners remain level on points with Jurgen Klopp's men but hold the lead thanks to their superior goal difference. Over the last seven games, Havertz has scored five goals and provided four assists and will be key in the title run in.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR HAVERTZ?
The German will be one of the first names on the team sheet when Arsenal take on Bayern Munich on April 17 in the Champions League, he could very well be rested on the weekend against Aston Villa depending on Arteta's preference.
