Just in 🚨:Stan Kroenke, the owner of Arsenal, has cautioned Mikel Arteta against deploying a particular Arsenal player in an unsuitable position if he aims to optimize the player’s performance.

Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has issued a warning to manager Mikel Arteta, expressing concern over the misuse of a key player, Kai Havertz, on the pitch. Kroenke contends that Arteta’s decision to deploy Havertz in a position unsuited to his strengths has led to the player’s subpar performances. Despite Havertz’s struggle to find his form after a £65 million transfer from Chelsea, Kroenke still believes in the player’s potential as a “special” asset for the club.

Havertz, formerly a regular striker at Chelsea, has primarily been utilized in midfield at Arsenal, often on the left or right, depending on team dynamics. The 24-year-old’s statistics, with only one goal and an assist in 18 appearances, highlight his challenges in adapting to the new role. Notably, Havertz has not been given the opportunity to play as a striker even in the absence of key forwards like Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson expresses sympathy for Havertz, arguing that the player’s struggles stem from being mispositioned. Merson suggests that Havertz, standing at 6ft 4in, might be better suited as a No.10 or even a center forward. Despite Havertz’s current difficulties, Merson emphasizes the player’s unique qualities and hopes for his success, acknowledging that every player faces challenges in their career.

In summary, Kroenke’s warning underscores the need for Arteta to reconsider Havertz’s position to unlock the player’s potential, while Merson emphasizes the importance of aligning the player with his natural strengths for optimal performance.