- Havertz was the left back in Germany’s 3-2 loss to Turkey.
- Arsenal’s new summer signing played in the midfield position at club level
- He conceded a penalty after scoring the first goal of Turkey.
Kai Havertz had a difficult evening after he found himself playing at left back in Germany’s 3-1 loss to Turkey.
Many fans are still unsure of the 24-year-old’s ideal position. After impressing as a central midfielder at Bayer Leverkusen, he struggled as a striker after starting his Chelsea career as an attacking player.
Mikel Arteta signed Havertz for PS65m this summer to replace Granit Xhaka in the midfield. However, the results are mixed. The German only has one goal from a penalty and one assist so far.
Havertz, to the surprise of most people, was handed a new task on Saturday by Germany’s manager Julian Nagelsmann. He revealed that the Arsenal player would start at left back against Turkey.
Nagelsmann said RTL, “I’ve got a good idea. He is an exceptional footballer,” ahead of his first game at home as Germany manager. This is a good option. “He won’t play always as a left-back.”
Havertz scored the first goal / Boris Streubel/GettyImages
The Arsenal player was not at fault in either of the two goals Turkey scored before the half.
Niclas Vollkrug scored the equalizer for Germany just after half-time. However, the match ended on a bitter note when Havertz was penalized for handball and allowed Turkey to score the final goal.
Nagelsmann stated after the match, “He did a hand gesture that I understand is not a penality.” Internationally, the rule is more strict. It’s not really a punishment.”
Havertz, who was the best German player on Saturday, was also not to be unfairly criticised by Germany’s coach.
Havertz now has played at the left back position in his senior career. He’s also represented Germany as a midfielder and an attacker. In fact, the only remaining positions he hasn’t played are centre-back, right-back, and goalkeeper.
