MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 06: Kai Havertz of Arsenal reacts after suffering a head injury and subsequently being substituted off during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Arsenal FC at Stadio San Siro on November 06, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal forward Kai Havertz recently shared his thoughts on the toughest players he faced during his time at Chelsea, naming some of the Premier League’s most formidable defenders. Now an Arsenal player himself, Havertz reflected on past matchups and the players he found challenging, including two of his current teammates, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
When asked which Premier League players he didn’t enjoy playing against, Havertz was quick to highlight the quality of defenders in the league. “There are lots of good players in the Prem at the moment, Van Dijk, and I remember when I was at Chelsea, playing against Saliba and Gabriel is not nice,” he admitted. “There are lots of good players.”
Havertz’s comments shed light on the high regard he has for Arsenal’s defensive duo, both of whom have been crucial to Arsenal’s recent resurgence under Mikel Arteta. Known for their physicality, speed, and ability to read the game, Saliba and Gabriel have formed a formidable partnership in Arsenal’s backline, making it difficult for even the league’s best attackers to find space and scoring opportunities.
Havertz’s acknowledgment of his own teammates is a testament to their growing reputation as some of the top defenders in England. While Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool has long been recognized as one of the best center-backs in the world, the inclusion of Saliba and Gabriel in Havertz’s list highlights their impact and importance at Arsenal.
Now playing alongside them, Havertz can appreciate not having to face them as opponents, enjoying instead the security they bring to Arsenal’s defense. His comments reflect the strong foundation Arsenal has built as they continue their push for titles, with a solid defense that can stand up to the best in the Premier League.
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