Germany legend Lothar Matthäus believes Kai Havertz is a “guaranteed starter” for the national team when fit and available. Matthäus’s comments come as Havertz recently withdrew from the Germany squad due to an injury sustained during the international break.
The former Bayern Munich star highlighted Havertz’s role as a forward for Arsenal as a key reason for his confidence in the 27-year-old. “Up front, I see Kai Havertz as a guaranteed starter and without much competition. He plays in this position for the current Premier League champions and Champions League finalists, Arsenal,” Matthäus told Sport Bild.
Competition for the Number Nine Role
Despite Matthäus’s strong backing for Havertz, he also discussed other contenders for Germany’s attacking positions. Nick Woltemade, currently on loan at Juventus from Newcastle, is considered a challenger for the number nine spot. However, Matthäus suggested that Woltemade’s recent dip in form could jeopardise his position, stating, “Nick Woltemade has to wait his turn and first establish himself at his club, Juventus. Woltemade, who once again struggled, may even have to fight for his role as a backup.”
Another player who could challenge for a spot is Niclas Füllkrug. The 33-year-old, on loan at Werder Bremen from West Ham United, has made an impressive start to the season. Matthäus noted Füllkrug’s goal-scoring ability, saying, “The answer to our lack of goals in attack could be Niclas Füllkrug. He is scoring goals again at Werder, is strong in the air and knows where the net is.” Füllkrug boasts a strong international record, having scored 14 goals in 24 appearances for Germany.
Matthäus also mentioned Nicolo Tresoldi of Club Brugge as a potential future option, though Tresoldi is yet to decide whether to represent Germany or Italy internationally.
Havertz’s Current Situation
Havertz’s recent injury withdrawal from the Germany squad, following a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands, temporarily sidelines him from national team duties. However, Matthäus’s assessment suggests that once fit, Havertz remains the clear first-choice striker for Germany.