Kai Havertz, striker for the German national team and Arsenal FC, is a regular starter under Bundestrainer Julian Nagelsmann. In the upcoming group match against Ecuador on Thursday (10:00 PM, ARD and MagentaTV), Havertz could get a rest to give Deniz Undav a chance.
Havertz spoke in an interview with “Zeit” about his role on the team and Undav’s importance: “Not at all. I really appreciate that he’s here. We needed Deniz, most recently against Ivory Coast, he scored the winner for us.” This statement highlights the team dynamics and cohesion within the squad.
Havertz, who serves as vice-captain and takes on a leadership role, added: “I’m not one to shout before the game. We have others who take the lead, Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Rüdiger, also Pascal Groß.” These words show that Havertz sees himself in a supporting role and is ready to take responsibility in difficult moments.
He reflected on how his performances are perceived in Germany and said: “Probably because I don’t play in the Bundesliga.”
He describes his success recipe against defenders as follows: “The defenders should never know where I am, where I want to go, what I’m planning, where I’ll be when. That’s the worst for them. I try to be a ghost for defenders.” This strategy could be crucial for success against Ecuador.
The decision on whether Havertz plays against Ecuador will depend on Nagelsmann, who closely monitors his players’ form and fitness. The Bundestrainer could call up Undav, who scored twice in the recent 2-1 win against Ivory Coast, to the starting lineup.
Source: www.tagesspiegel.de
