Former Arsenal star tells Kai Havertz how to make critics 'eat their words'

Former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka has offered Kai Havertz advice on how to deal with fan unrest at the Emirates Stadium.

Patience is what Kai Havertz needs to make his Arsenal critics ‘eat their words’, according to Granit Xhaka.

Xhaka, who left Arsenal to join Bayer Leverkusen last summer, knows what it’s like to be on the wrong side of critics. In January 2020, his Gunners career seemed over, after losing the captain’s armband. This came in the wake of his angry outburst against the fans who booed him in a game against Crystal Palace.

Yet, after manager Mikel Arteta convinced him to stay, Xhaka became a fan favorite and thinks Havertz can do the same.

The £65 million summer signing from Chelsea had a difficult start at the Emirates Stadium. That said, his performances have improved in his new midfield role, with four goals scored in his last seven games.

“I know what it’s like for Kai, when people on the outside are a little bit nervous and the fans get restless,” Xhaka told The Athletic.

“He just needs to stay calm. It’s a new position for him and it takes time to fully understand Mikel’s philosophy. But he’s getting better all the time and his confidence is coming back now. Everyone knows his potential but having the confidence of your club, your manager and your team-mates is everything. You always need that backing.”

The Swiss added: “Arsenal supporters sometimes can take a bit of persuading to change their minds. But in the end, I won them around. I hope for Kai that he will do the same, and that the critics will eat their words.”

Havertz has made 26 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season. The German has scored five goals and dished out one assist.