Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, believes that the tide is about to change for Kai Havertz after the German midfielder finally found the back of the net in Arsenal’s 4-0 victory over Bournemouth.

Kai Havertz, 24, has faced intense scrutiny and criticism since his £65 million move from Chelsea to Arsenal during the summer transfer window. Prior to his goal against Bournemouth, he had not contributed a single goal or assist to his new club.

In a game where Arsenal was already leading 2-0, Havertz was given the opportunity to take a penalty, which marked his first goal for the Gunners. Arteta expressed his joy at Havertz’s achievement and anticipates a positive shift in the player’s fortunes from this point forward.

During his post-match press conference, Arteta stated, “I’m really happy for the win, but I’m even happier to be part of a team that shows the human qualities that they do today. To show that empathy to a player that has some question marks they warmed me even more today. I’m so happy with our supporters the way they made him feel.”

Arteta continued, “If there’s a player who deserves that it’s him. Probably it will change everything. If he had any question marks about how we feel about him they are out.”

The Arsenal manager went on to express his deep appreciation for the touching moment when Havertz was entrusted with taking Arsenal’s second penalty of the match. Arteta revealed, “What they did today for Kai was a really moving moment. [He is] someone that is going through a period externally – not internally but externally – that he’s getting questioned in certain areas. For the team to step up and show that empathy and that trust towards him, they won my heart today that group of players.”

As Havertz finds his footing and support within the Arsenal team, the Gunners will hope to build on their recent victories and continue their progress in domestic and international competitions.