Mikel Arteta sends encouraging message to Kai Havertz

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sent an encouraging message to Kai Havertz following the 3-1 win over Manchester United on Sunday.

The German had a good start against the Red Devils where he won several duels. However, he was guilty of missing a clear-cut chance before making a mistake leading to United's goal.

Havertz was eventually substituted in the final phase of the game for Fabio Vieira. The former Chelsea man has had a tough start to his Gunners career, but Arteta has encouraged him once more.

He said: "I said to Havertz: things are hard at the beginning. When I met my wife, at the beginning it was hard to conquer her."

"It was hard, I had to try and message her, and go, and go. And at the end when she says ‘yes, we can be together…’ It’s beautiful."

Havertz has not made a goal contribution in the first four games of the season. He won a penalty against United, but it was overturned by VAR as there was minimal contact.

The 24-year-old will now report for international duty with Germany. Judging by Arteta's comments, the midfielder is likely to reclaim his starting spot when the season restarts.