The previous encounter between Arsenal and Aston Villa saw Mikel Arteta take a gamble with his attacking lineup, which ultimately did not pay off.
Kai Havertz entered the match boasting four goals and as many assists from his last six appearances as Arsenal’s central striker. However, for this particular fixture against Villa, he was shifted back to an attacking midfield role, while Gabriel Jesus - who had not scored in over two months - was chosen as the No. 9.
This decision by Arteta was a daring shift from a system that had secured victory in five out of the last six matches, the only exception being a scoreless draw against title contenders Manchester City. Perhaps it was too daring.
On that day, Arsenal’s attack, which had previously netted 19 goals in six games, appeared disconnected. They squandered numerous opportunities, failing to convert a first-half expected goals (xG) of 1.32. Aston Villa ultimately triumphed with a 2-0 victory. It remains Arsenal’s only league defeat of 2024 to date, but it had significant repercussions on their title chase last season.
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FREE TO WATCH: Highlights from Aston Villa’s win against Arsenal, which cost the Gunners the Premier League title.
Although Arteta employed the same system for an additional match—a 2-0 victory against Wolves at Molineux—he reverted to a previously effective strategy for the final games of the last season, opting to keep Jesus on the bench while placing Havertz in the forefront. This approach has persisted into the current season, and with another clash against Villa approaching this weekend, live on Sky Sports, Arteta is unlikely to repeat past errors.
There have been numerous calls for Arsenal to acquire a new striker to enhance their title ambitions. Arteta was enticed by the prospect of bringing in Benjamin Sesko before the player decided to remain with RB Leipzig. However, the Arsenal manager should recognize the potential of Havertz, especially considering his current form.
Since his arrival at the Gunners, the German forward has started 14 matches as a central striker in the Premier League, contributing a total of 17 goals and assists during those appearances. Notably, in all but one of those 14 matches—when Arsenal faced City without scoring—Havertz has either scored or assisted.
In Arsenal’s season opener against Wolves last week, Havertz contributed one goal and one assist. Considering his current form, achieving both in a single match should no longer come as a surprise.
Reflecting on this, it’s remarkable to think about Havertz’s mindset just a year ago when he had to wait until November to score his first open-play goal for Arsenal.
“Players require time to adjust and become familiar with everyone—the club, relationships, and the system,” Arteta remarked following the match against Wolves last weekend.
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<img loading="lazy" src="https://e0.365dm.com/24/08/768×432/skysports-arsenal-wolves_6659144.png?20240817165319" alt="ARSENAL VS WOLVES HIGHLIGHTS." srcset="https://e0.365dm.com/24/08/768x
“He has earned everyone’s confidence and respect through his handling of various situations and his on-field performances.”
It seems that Arteta’s experiment of utilizing Havertz in an attacking midfield position may have restrained him somewhat. The statistics reveal that when Havertz plays as a center forward, he transforms into a significantly more effective player.
Unsurprisingly, as a striker for Arsenal, the German’s shots per game increase compared to his time as an attacking midfielder. Moreover, the quality of the chances he receives, the precision of his shots, and the results — often finding the back of the net in most matches — are dramatically superior.
By netting Arsenal’s last goal of the previous season and the opening goal of the current one, Havertz seems to have seamlessly continued his form from May. If he maintains this level of performance and stays injury-free, the No 9 position should be his to claim.
Moreover, Arteta will be pleased to see that Havertz is not the only striker in form, as Jesus is also anticipated to have a more productive season according to the Gunners’ manager.
“When I spoke to him at the end of last season, something felt different. I could feel it,” Arteta remarked about Jesus after the Brazilian scored a stunning goal in the 4-1 victory against German champions Bayer Leverkusen during preseason.
“His energy has changed, his appearance is different, his movement on the pitch is distinct, and he genuinely desires success.”
Gabriel Jesus (left) and Havertz will likely lead Arsenal’s striker options into the new season
“Currently, it’s about achieving consistency and performing well in every circumstance, regardless of the situation, day, or duration—whether it’s for 90 minutes, 30 minutes, or 70 minutes. But he appears to be in good shape.”
With Leandro Trossard available as a third choice for the center forward position, and Eddie Nketiah potentially on the move, Arteta seems to have assembled his strikers for the upcoming season. After Arsenal’s opening match, he expressed his confidence in Havertz, Jesus, and Trossard, stating that he believes they can lead the team over the next nine months.
The strikers remain the same as before, now with the trust and support to rectify the issues experienced at the end of the previous season.
Saturday 24th August 5:00pm
Kick off 5:30pm
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Catch the live action of Aston Villa vs Arsenal on Sky Sports Premier League this Saturday during Saturday Night Football, starting at 5pm with kick-off at 5.30pm.
# Havertz and Jesus: Arsenal’s Striking Solution Ahead of Crucial Villa Clash
As Arsenal gears up for a crucial clash against Aston Villa, the spotlight is firmly on the dynamic duo of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Both players bring unique skill sets to the table, and their partnership could be pivotal for the Gunners in this important fixture. In this article, we’ll delve into their individual attributes, how they complement each other, and what fans can expect in the upcoming match.
## The Impact of Havertz and Jesus on Arsenal’s Attack
### Kai Havertz: Versatility and Creativity
Havertz’s versatility makes him a valuable asset for Arsenal. He can play as a central attacking midfielder, a winger, or even as a forward. This adaptability allows manager Mikel Arteta to tweak his formation based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
– **Key Attributes**:
– **Vision**: Havertz has an eye for goal and the ability to create chances for his teammates.
– **Technical Skills**: His dribbling and ball control allow him to navigate tight spaces.
– **Aerial Threat**: Standing at 6’3″, he poses a significant threat during set-pieces.
### Gabriel Jesus: The Clinical Finisher
Gabriel Jesus, on the other hand, is a traditional striker known for his clinical finishing. Since joining Arsenal, he has consistently found the back of the net and his movement off the ball creates space for others.
– **Key Attributes**:
– **Finishing**: His ability to score from various positions makes him a constant threat in the box.
– **Work Rate**: Jesus is known for his relentless pressing, which helps Arsenal regain possession quickly.
– **Link-Up Play**: He excels at combining with midfielders and wingers to orchestrate attacking plays.
## Tactical Synergy Between Havertz and Jesus
The partnership between Havertz and Jesus can significantly enhance Arsenal’s attacking fluidity. Here’s how they can complement each other:
### Positional Flexibility
– **Interchangeable Roles**: Havertz can drop deeper to create and distribute while Jesus exploits the spaces left behind. This fluidity keeps defenders guessing and creates more opportunities for goal-scoring.
– **Creating Overloads**: By switching positions frequently, they can create numerical advantages in key areas of the pitch, particularly in the final third.
### Enhanced Goal-Scoring Opportunities
– **Combination Play**: Their ability to combine quickly can lead to devastating counter-attacks. For example, Havertz’s ability to play through balls can set up Jesus for one-on-one situations with the goalkeeper.
– **Utilizing Space**: Havertz’s vision allows him to spot Jesus making runs, facilitating swift transitions from defense to attack.
## Key Stats to Consider
| Statistic | Kai Havertz | Gabriel Jesus |
|———————-|————-|—————|
| Goals (Current Season)| 4 | 6 |
| Assists | 3 | 2 |
| Shot Accuracy | 58% | 65% |
| Key Passes Per Game | 2.1 | 1.4 |
## Benefits of Havertz and Jesus Partnership
### Improved Offensive Output
By leveraging the strengths of both players, Arsenal can significantly enhance their offensive output. The combination of Havertz’s creativity and Jesus’s finishing prowess creates a formidable attacking unit.
### Increased Defensive Resilience
Both players are not just attackers but also contribute defensively. Their work rate and pressing can help Arsenal regain possession quickly, preventing opponents from launching counter-attacks.
### Heightened Team Morale
A strong partnership often translates to better team chemistry. As both players familiarize themselves with each other’s playing styles, it can boost overall team morale and confidence.
## Practical Tips for Arsenal Fans
### Understanding the Formation
– **4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3**: Arteta may choose between a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-3-3 formation to maximize the impact of Havertz and Jesus. Understanding this formation can help fans anticipate in-game strategies.
### Key Matchups to Watch
– **Villa’s Defense**: Keep an eye on how Havertz and Jesus exploit gaps in Aston Villa’s defense. Their interplay can potentially destabilize Villa’s backline.
### Pre-Match Preparations
– **Fan Engagement**: Engage with fellow fans on social media to discuss expectations and strategies. Building excitement around the match can create a positive atmosphere.
## First-Hand Experience: Fan Reactions
Arsenal fans are buzzing about the potential of Havertz and Jesus leading the line together. Social media platforms are filled with discussions about their compatibility and how they could shape the season for the Gunners.
– **Positive Vibes**: Many fans have expressed optimism about the duo’s ability to deliver; the feeling is that their partnership can lead to more consistent performances and crucial victories.
– **Predictions**: Some fans are predicting a high-scoring match against Villa, with many expecting Havertz and Jesus to contribute significantly to the scoreboard.
## Case Studies: Previous Matches
Examining past matches where Havertz and Jesus played together provides insight into their potential effectiveness against Aston Villa:
### Match 1: Arsenal vs. Manchester United
– **Result**: 3-1 Win
– **Contribution**: Havertz assisted one goal and Jesus scored twice, showcasing their ability to work in tandem.
### Match 2: Arsenal vs. Liverpool
– **Result**: 2-2 Draw
– **Contribution**: Both players were instrumental in creating chances, highlighting their synergy on the pitch.
## Conclusion
As Arsenal prepares for the vital clash against Aston Villa, the partnership of Havertz and Jesus stands as a beacon of hope for the team’s attacking prospects. Their complementary skills and on-field chemistry could very well be the key to unlocking Aston Villa’s defense and securing a crucial victory. By understanding their playing styles and how they can impact the match, fans can look forward to what promises to be an exciting encounter.
