Ian Wright’s suggestion; should Kai Havertz replace Eddie Nketiah in Arsenal’s starting XI?

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has put forth the idea that Kai Havertz should replace Eddie Nketiah in the team’s starting lineup following the German player’s impressive performance against Manchester City.

Havertz made a significant impact coming off the bench in the last 15 minutes of the match against Manchester City. He provided the crucial assist for Gabriel Martinelli’s late winning goal at the Emirates Stadium. Havertz had also scored in a recent 4-0 victory over Bournemouth just over a week ago.

Wright, however, expressed disappointment with Nketiah’s performance against Pep Guardiola’s side and suggested that Havertz could be a suitable replacement in Mikel Arteta’s team.

During the Wrighty’s House podcast, Wright stated, “You know what, if Havertz doesn’t go in there to lay it back down, we may not get that goal against Man City.”

He further elaborated, “Because some of the times, Eddie, like I said, he did a lot of work, made so many runs. But there are times when you look in the build-up when he’s either too far on the left if it’s on the right, or too far on the right if it’s on the left. And you just need that body, that focal point in the middle, that Thomas Partey can chip it into, who can make sure that he chests it down to hold it and lay it back off.”

Wright praised Kai Havertz for fulfilling this role effectively during the match against Manchester City, describing it as “absolutely brilliant for us.”

He acknowledged Nketiah’s hard work and dedication but pointed out that playing against a team like Manchester City offers limited opportunities, making the need for a central focal point more crucial.