Kai Havertz claims quitting Chelsea for rivals Arsenal was 'the best thing he's ever done'

Kai Havertz has called his decision to move across London from Chelsea to Arsenal ‘the best decision’ of his career in a new interview. 

The Gunners forward arrived at the start of the 2023-24 season as Mikel Arteta’s side sort to sharpen their attack in preparation for another title-chasing campaign. 

The Germany international took a little time to settle at the Emirates, perhaps somewhat burdened by his £65million price tag and hungover from a mixed stint at Stamford Bridge where multiple managers had stuggled to find the right position to play the forward in. 

But after securing his debut goal in October – a penalty against Bournemouth – Havertz has flourished in north London, and become one of Arteta’s regular starters, scoring 23 and assisting a further eight during his stint in red. 

Havertz may have attracted the ire of some Chelsea fans when he shushed the Stamford Bridge faithful in celebration of a goal later ruled offside last month, but the player has now gone one step further, stressing the necessity of his move away from west London. 

‘For me, it’s the best thing I could have done,’ Havertz told Sky Sports. ‘I’m so happy with the support of everyone who helped me during my time there. 

The Germany international had a mixed run at Stamford Bridge with multiple managers failing to get the very best from him

The player has found himself warmly supported by head coach Mikel Arteta since the move north

‘I’ve only just started, and I hope to continue playing well and winning titles.’

Arsenal secured a vital 2-0 win against Manchester United on Wednesday evening, helping the team keep pace with the chasing pack seven points behind league leaders Liverpool. 

Sitting third – behind Chelsea by the virtue of the Blues’ goal difference – Arteta’s players remain in touch for their third tilt at the Premier League title in as many seasons. 

But Havertz was keen to keep expectations manageable at this stage of the campaign, adding: ‘We’re still in the first part of the season, and anything can happen. 

‘Personally, I think how the Premier League is getting tougher year after year. 

‘Liverpool have suddenly reached the top level and they are continuing to show it, week after week and I definitely have to give them credit. But there are a lot of games to play, points to get, so we will definitely be ready for the fight.’

One aspect of this stage of the season which will undoubtedly boost Arsenal’s chances is the return of injured captain Martin Odegaard. 

The Norwegian midfielder returned to the starting line-up for the Gunners’ Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon after the international break, and Havertz was quick to praise his skipper for consistently giving opponents food for thought. 

‘He is simply magical,’ Havertz continued. 

‘He makes everything so calm and easy on the pitch, he has the confidence to change games on his own, even in difficult moments he takes the ball and always does something decisive. 

‘He never backs down. He is a very important player for us.’ 

After mid-week Premier League action, Arsenal have a swift turnaround before facing off with fellow Londoners Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.