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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Alex Young

Arsenal: Mikel Arteta on Kai Havertz role after underwhelming debut

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says he is still working out where best to play Kai Havertz this season.

The Gunners' new £65million man was handed his debut on Thursday, coming on at half-time against Nurnberg with his team 1-0 up thanks to Bukayo Saka's opening goal.

However, Havertz underwhelmed in his new surroundings and failed to have any impact of note from the wing as their hosts levelled matters after a mix-up between Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein and Jorginho allowed Kanji Okunuki to score.

Folarin Balogun had two gilt-edged opportunities to win the game but failed to convert.

Kai Havertz failed to assert himself against weak opposition. (Getty Images)

Speaking after the game, Arteta was asked about where he sees Havertz fitting into his side after a quiet first 45 minutes in red.

"We will see," he replied. "We have to see how he adapts and get to know each other and build relationships.

"Football is about that and time will tell where he sees best."

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