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

Kai Havertz has called his decision to move 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 looked to sharpen their attack in preparation for another title chase.

The Germany international took some time to settle at the Emirates, perhaps weighed down somewhat by his £65 million price tag and a hangover from a mixed spell at Stamford Bridge, where several managers had struggled to find the right position to play as to play attacker.

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

Havertz may have angered some Chelsea fans when he silenced the Stamford Bridge faithful in celebration of a goal that was later ruled offside last month, but the player has now gone a step further and stressed the need for his departure from West London.

“To me, this is the best thing I could have done,” Havertz said Air sports. ‘I’m so grateful for the support from everyone who helped me during my time there.

The Germany international had a mixed spell at Stamford Bridge, with several managers failing to get the best out of him, but he did secure the Champions League in 2021

The player has been warmly supported by head coach Mikel Arteta since his move north

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

Arsenal recorded a crucial 2-0 win against Manchester United on Wednesday evening, allowing the team to keep pace with the chasing team, seven points behind leaders Liverpool.

Arteta’s players sit in third place, behind Chelsea on the Blues’ goal difference, and remain in touch for their third chance at the Premier League title in as many seasons.

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

‘Personally I think the Premier League is becoming more difficult year after year.

‘Liverpool have suddenly reached the highest level and they continue to show that week after week, and I certainly have to applaud them for that. But there are still many games to play and points to be won, so we will definitely be ready to battle.”

One aspect of this stage of the season that 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 captain for consistently giving his opponents food for thought.

Havertz also praised Martin Odegaard, who he considers a good friend off the field

“He’s just magical,” Havertz continued.

‘He makes everything so calm and easy on the pitch, he has the confidence to change the game himself, 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 midweek Premier League action, Arsenal make a quick turnaround before taking on fellow Londoners Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.