As Arsenal prepares for the season's final stretch, Kai Havertz's form could be the key to ending the club's Premier League title drought.

The German midfielder, who was acquired from Chelsea for 65 million pounds by manager Mikel Arteta last summer, faced initial skepticism over his ability to fill the void left by Granit Xhaka's departure to Bayer Leverkusen.

Arsenal's Kai Havertz (L) challenges Liverpool's Endo Wataru during the English Premier League match between Liverpool and Arsenal in Liverpool, Britain, Dec. 23, 2023. (Xinhua)

Havertz, 24, had scored the winner in Chelsea's 1-0 win over Manchester City in the Champions League final in 2021. However, he struggled with frequent managerial changes and positional shifts in both his club and the national team, leading to a period of on-field confusion.

This period extended to his early days at Arsenal until he opened his goal-scoring account in the seventh round of league matches.

Despite a slow start at Arsenal, Havertz has now made his critics cheer for him. And Arteta's faith in his attacking, which he lacked at Chelsea, has been pivotal.

Standing at 1.93 meters, he has become a reliable focal point in Arsenal's attack. Like a nimble tank, he poses a significant challenge to defensive players with his agility.

Arteta's adept use of Havertz's versatility has made up for the absences of Gabriel Jesus and Thomas Partey, offering Arsenal greater creativity and threat in the midfield and frontline.

Havertz delivered a goal and an assist in a 6-0 thrashing of Sheffield United on Monday night, bringing his season tally to seven goals and three assists, making him the fifth Arsenal player to reach double figures in goal involvements.

Against Burnley, Havertz's skill was on full display as he elegantly dribbled past a defender to score.

"I like to be on the pitch, and I am not a player who is just in one position," said Havertz.

His chemistry with Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli has heated up, with consecutive assists in league matches. Arsenal's left flank is rapidly emerging as a launchpad for attacks, rivaling the prowess of Bukayo Saka's right wing, and fueling the Gunners' explosive offensive firepower in recent matches.

The Gunners collected 24 goals in their last five league matches, maintaining a perfect win record, with Havertz contributing three goals and two assists in the last three games alone.

The balanced threat from both wings has made it difficult to draw up a strategic plan for defending.

Moreover, Havertz's performances against top teams have drawn particular praise. His strategic play has been crucial in Arsenal's victories over Manchester City and Liverpool.

As Liverpool and City set to face each other this Sunday, Arsenal eyes an opportunity to climb back to the top of the table. And Arsenal fans are eyeing the Premier League trophy back to North London.

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