Kai Havertz Reflects on Champions League Glory and Upcoming Final
Kai Havertz reminisces fondly about the 2021 Champions League final, where Chelsea achieved an unexpected victory over Manchester City in Porto. The German striker recalls the moment with a smile, emphasizing the lasting impact it has had on his career.
Reflecting on that memorable match, Havertz stated, “It’s something I’ll never forget. As a child, I could never have imagined scoring in a final and winning the match. I’ll always take pride in that and hope to experience it again.”
As Havertz prepares for Saturday’s final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, he acknowledges the challenges ahead. Much like Chelsea’s previous encounter with City—where they were significant underdogs despite City finishing the Premier League 12 points ahead—Arsenal faces a daunting task. The team concluded the league season in fourth place, seven points behind the champions.
“We were definitely the underdogs that day,” Havertz said, considering his current season. “While my performance hasn’t been up to par, this situation is entirely different.” He is expected to start the final, having recently outperformed summer signing Victor Goqueres in key matches against Manchester City and Burnley. Havertz is eager to showcase his skills in another prestigious European showcase.
“This competition carries so much history,” he remarked. “Competing alongside legendary players and vying for trophies makes it all the more special. Watching every final as a kid, it’s surreal to now participate in one myself.”
Arsenal’s decision to invest £65 million in Havertz was surprising to many, particularly given his earlier heroics in the Champions League final. However, he finished as the team’s top scorer last season, overcoming a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the last three months. He now hopes to repay manager Mikel Arteta’s trust on such a grand stage.
“Arteta was instrumental in bringing me to the club and nurturing my development both on and off the field,” he noted. “His support, especially during challenging times, has been invaluable. It’s rewarding to contribute to the team’s successes, especially after helping them reclaim their first Premier League title since 2004.”
Havertz faced a challenging five-month recovery from a knee injury sustained at the start of the season against Manchester United. What initially seemed like a minor issue escalated, resulting in two surgeries and an extended period in a knee brace. “It was a tough time. Being confined and unable to walk was difficult, but the encouragement from my teammates and staff was crucial in my recovery,” he shared.
Now back on the field, Havertz feels a renewed sense of purpose. “Everyone has noticed my impact since January, which changed my momentum for the better,” he said. “I strive to support the team daily, even while sidelined, as every contribution counts.” His journey back has included key goals—such as in the Champions League knockout stages—which played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
Havertz believes the defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final was a decisive turning point for Arsenal. “It pushed us to realize our potential. We knew we could perform at a higher level, and the international break reenergized us,” he explained. “Coming back stronger after that setback has proven essential. Winning the league is a significant achievement that fills us with confidence as we approach PSG.”
With the Premier League title now in hand, Havertz is determined as Arsenal prepares for the high-stakes final against PSG. “Having competed at the highest level for several years now, winning the Premier League is a huge confidence booster. No matter the opponent, we are ready to step onto the pitch and give it our all,” he reaffirmed.
