Robbie Fowler, the Liverpool legend, has stirred the football world by declaring that Kai Havertz is the player who will cost Arsenal the Premier League title.
Moreover, Fowler’s verdict comes at a time when Arsenal’s trophy ambitions seem increasingly fragile. He did not mince his words, and his opinion has already ignited debates among fans and pundits alike.
Fowler pointedly criticized Arsenal’s £65million signing of the 25-year-old German. He argued that if the Gunners dream of clinching major honors, then relying on Havertz in a focal role may be a costly mistake. Furthermore, his comments arrived on the heels of Arsenal’s recent setback in cup competitions.
The Gunners were knocked out of the Carabao Cup following a 4-0 aggregate loss against Newcastle. In the second leg, they fell 2-0 to the Magpies, which only added to the growing concerns around their squad choices. Consequently, the defeat has become a rallying point for critics of Arsenal’s transfer strategy.
During the match, Havertz played the full 90 minutes, yet he managed only one shot on goal. Additionally, his performance failed to sway the game in Arsenal’s favor. In contrast, the expectations for a £65million player were considerably higher, and the lack of impact has prompted further scrutiny from experts like Fowler.
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Moreover, Arsenal’s transfer window woes have not ended with Havertz’s performance. The Gunners also missed out on signing a new striker, despite clear interest in Aston Villa’s No. 11, Ollie Watkins, who is 29 years old. Manager Mikel Arteta, a long-term admirer of Watkins’ abilities, grew frustrated as the deal never materialized, leaving the team short in a key position.
On The LineUp with Jim White and Tony Bellew, Fowler expressed his doubts in no uncertain terms. He remarked, “If I’m being honest, he’s not my cup of tea.” Furthermore, he added, “I think he’s OK but, if you’re a team that’s got real aspirations of winning Premier Leagues and Champions Leagues, then I think you need someone better than Kai Havertz playing in that focal striker role. He’ll do a job but I don’t think he’s been as consistent as he would have liked. I just think there are better players out there.” His frank assessment has resonated with many who question Arsenal’s ambitions.
In addition, the winter transfer window did not offer Arsenal much relief. During January, it appeared that Ollie Watkins was willing to make the move to the Emirates Stadium. However, Aston Villa rejected the Gunners’ offer, as they were determined to keep their prized striker. Consequently, Arsenal’s failure to secure a top-quality forward has only compounded their defensive and offensive issues.
Finally, a potential deal was further derailed when Jhon Duran completed his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr for £64.5million. This development underscored the notion that the striker acquisition was pursued merely as a token gesture to appease fans rather than a strategic move. As a result, Fowler’s warning about Havertz now carries even greater weight, leaving Arsenal’s title credentials in serious doubt.
