"Kai has made a big step forward in the last two years" – Julian Nagelsmann explains how Kai Havertz has improved since joining Arsenal

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has showered praise on Kai Havertz for his growth since joining Arsenal following his team's recent 5-0 UEFA Nations League win over Hungary.

Earlier this Saturday (September 7), Havertz continued his fine run of form for both club and country as he scored a goal against Hungary. The 25-year-old completed 23 of 25 passes, won and converted a penalty, registered five shots, and won seven of 12 overall duels.

After the end of the Nations League Group C encounter, Nagelsmann revealed how Havertz has emerged as a valuable member for Germany. The 37-year-old tactician said (h/t TBR):

"Kai has made a big step forward in the last two years. He has the potential to be world-class in many positions. He runs an incredible amount and has become very clever. Sometimes, he lacks a bit of luck when it comes to finishing. The co-captaincy is good for him. He is a smart person, very reflective, very modest. I hope that he continues to believe in himself."

Havertz, who registered two goals and an assist at the UEFA Euro 2024, has proved to be a stellar signing for Arsenal. He helped the Gunners achieve a second successive runners-up finish in the Premier League last season, transitioning himself into a striker.

Since leaving Chelsea in a potential £65 million switch last summer, Havertz has scored 16 goals in 54 appearances across competitions for the Gunners. The left-footed star has also laid out eight assists for them.

Arsenal star opens up on temporary exit

Speaking to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, Arsenal midfielder Fabio Vieira revealed that he was the one who pushed for a loan move to Porto earlier this summer. He said (h/t Metro):

"The idea of returning came from me. I love this club and I'm going to give everything on the pitch. I'm happy, obviously, it's my home. I'm looking forward to being at the stadium, playing in front of these fans and doing the best I can for this club this season."

Vieira, who joined the Gunners in a £32 million transfer in 2022, added:

"It was a chance that, above all, came to me because it was something I already wanted: to play. I had a difficult time in England, an operation, and at this moment I felt that Porto was a good opportunity to continue growing and developing."

In the last two seasons, Vieira started just 17 of his 49 overall appearances for Arsenal. The 24-year-old attacking midfielder found the back of the net three times and provided nine assists for his parent club.

Prior to joining Arsenal, Vieira relished a breakout season at Porto in the 2021-22 season. He registered seven goals and 16 assists in 39 total games for his boyhood club, helping them win the league title.