Kai Havertz makes a statement as Arsenal win Premier League opener against Wolves
Kai Havertz has made a statement with his goal for Arsenal in their Premier League win over Wolves
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As Arsenal look to win the Premier League title this season, fans have just one question: Why haven't they signed a new striker?
After all, Manchester City have Erling Haaland. There is a consensus that, if they're to finally reel in Pep Guardiola's side, then they need their own version of the Norway international.
A year ago, when Arsenal signed Kai Havertz from Chelsea, many were quick to mock the Gunners.
They were forking out big money on a man who, more often than not, had flattered to deceive during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Kai Havertz has made a statement with his goal for Arsenal in their Premier League win over Wolves
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Havertz scored the only goal of the game as Chelsea won the Champions League back in 2021 at the expense of City, who had to settle for being runners-up.
But the brutal truth of the matter is that he never looked like the player that electrified the Bundesliga for Bayer Leverkusen during his time in west London.
Havertz took a while to get going at Arsenal. He endured a slow start, with Mikel Arteta doing everything he can to improve his confidence.
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Yet he's certainly came good towards the end of the season and, based on Saturday's display against Wolves, more improvement seems to be forthcoming.
Arsenal weren't at their best in their Premier League opener, with Arteta's side surprisingly devoid of their usual spark.
However, Havertz got the ball rolling by scoring in the 25th minute to ease some of the growing nerves inside the Emirates Stadium.
The 25-year-old netted a magnificent header, thundering home after a pinpoint cross from Bukayo Saka.
It is a statement goal from Havertz, who would likely have to settle for a place on the bench if Arsenal were to bring in a new marksman.
This role is his to lose. Yes, Arsenal have Gabriel Jesus. Eddie Nketiah is still there for the time being, despite being widely expected to leave before the end of the transfer window.
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Kai Havertz scored a stunning header as Arsenal beat Wolves in their Premier League opener on Saturday
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But Havertz seems to have won Arteta's trust and it's hard to see him being demoted any time soon, especially if he keeps popping up with big goals for the club.
Wolves were plucky opponents, with Gary O'Neil's team unlucky not to draw level.
Had it not been for Arsenal's defence, and Gabriel and William Saliba in particular, they'd likely have been forced to settle for a point - instead of all three.
Kai Havertz was joined by Bukayo Saka on the scoresheet as Arsenal beat Wolves in their first match of the new Premier League season
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Just as Arsenal were starting to look a little vulnerable, Saka put the game to bed.
The winger doubled his side's lead with 16 minutes remaining and, upon being hooked, was given a standing ovation.
Arsenal will need to be better if they're to catch City but this victory will set them in good stead as they look to win a first league title since 2004.