Kai Havertz has revealed that a Carabao Cup final defeat, rather than a victory, was the catalyst for Arsenal's historic season, which has seen them win the Premier League title and reach the Champions League final in Budapest on Saturday. The German midfielder, who missed the first half of the campaign with a knee injury, returned to play a crucial role in their title triumph and brings invaluable experience from his winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final.
A Turning Point in Defeat
Reflecting on the season, Havertz pinpointed the Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City as a pivotal moment. 'It was a moment where we felt like we could do so much better and there was so much more in this team, and everyone needed to lift their spirits,' he said. 'There was the international break after and we just said to ourselves that we need to come back stronger. From that moment, things changed a bit and we were more successful. I think, for me, that was a big moment.'
Overcoming Injury Hell
Havertz's season was marred by injury. After recovering from a hamstring problem in pre-season, he sustained a knee injury that required surgery and kept him sidelined until January. 'I was in a bad place when I was injured,' he admitted. 'It's not nice, especially because it came after a big injury. I had two surgeries and was in a brace for weeks. You are just inside a building. You cannot go out. You cannot walk, you do nothing.'
His return to the pitch marked a turning point in his recovery. 'For me, things shifted when I went out on the pitch for the first time. Then you can feel the grass again, you can put your boots on again. I think that is always the big moment when you are in recovery.' He credited the support of teammates and staff for helping him regain his best form.
Champions League Experience
Havertz has not started a Champions League knockout game this season but has been an impactful substitute. He could start on the bench against Paris Saint-Germain, but his experience of scoring the winner in the 2021 final for Chelsea against Manchester City is invaluable. 'As a kid, I could have never dreamt that I would score a goal in the final and win that game. It is a moment I will never forget. I will always be proud of it. I just try to take that feeling to Saturday and, hopefully, I will get that feeling again.'
Arteta's Impact
Havertz praised manager Mikel Arteta for his influence. 'He was the one who brought me to the club and he taught me so much stuff on the pitch, and off the pitch as well. I am very thankful for that time, how he helped me a lot when I had difficult moments.' He noted that winning the Premier League was a fitting gift for Arteta, who has restored the club to its rightful place.
Champions League Final Ambitions
Arsenal have never won the European Cup, and Havertz believes the Champions League trophy would be the greatest gift. 'Along with the Premier League, it is probably the hardest competition to win. There is just so much history with it. So many big players played in it. And to be there, to compete to win the trophy, is amazing.' He recalled watching finals as a child and described playing in one as 'unreal.' He added, 'You need to get there, and then you still have to make that step and win it. It is going to be hard, but I think we are going to be well prepared.'
