Kai Havertz opens Arsenal account as Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber make debuts in win over MLS All-Stars
Arsenal put on a dominant display in their 5-0 victory against the MLS All-Stars, with Kai Havertz proving his critics wrong by scoring a goal. The Gunners showcased their title-contending abilities, with new signings Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber making their debuts in the match.
Havertz, who had faced scrutiny after failing to impress in previous challenges, responded to the criticism by scoring a fantastic goal in the 89th minute. Controlling Marquinhos’ cross with his chest, the 24-year-old unleashed a powerful half volley into the near post.
The match took place at a packed Audi Field, with a record attendance of 20,621 fans. Gabriel Jesus opened the scoring with a remarkable chip from the edge of the box, followed by Leandro Trossard’s stunning strike into the top corner. Jorginho converted a penalty to make it 3-0, and Gabriel Martinelli added another goal after a precise through ball from Martin Odegaard.
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and the support they received from Arsenal fans. He also confirmed that Havertz has been brought in as an attacking midfielder, rather than a center-forward as he played at his previous club, Chelsea.
Overall, Arsenal’s performance against the MLS All-Stars was nothing short of sensational, and Arteta hopes it is a sign of things to come from Havertz and the rest of the team.
Kai Havertz opened his Arsenal account as Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber made their debuts in a comprehensive 2-0 victory over the Major League Soccer All stars in Los Angeles. The victory saw Arsenal make a winning start to the US Tour.
The performance was spearheaded by 19 year old summer signing, Havertz, who opened his scoring account for Arsenal following a wonderful piece of link up play involving Nico Bukigman and Bukamba Nketiah. Havertz took one touch to control the ball before firing the shot low and hard into the net. It was a moment to remember for the new German signing, who looked a class above the MLS opposition.
Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber, Arsenal’s other two summer signings, made their debuts in the second half. Rice impressed in midfield, showing strength, positioning and awareness of when to press and when to sit off, while Timber had some nice touches interchanging on the wing and putting Gunner defenders under pressure.
Overall, it was a great performance showing why these acquisitions were made, as the trio look set to form a formidable part of Mikel Arteta’s arsenal squad. With some further sharpening up of this relatively young and inexperienced squad, Arsenal could yet make a real impression this season.