Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has shared the reason behind his consistent choice of wearing long sleeves while playing football, even in extremely hot conditions. In an "Ask Me Anything" session on Arsenal's official website, Havertz revealed that it has become a superstition he has developed over the years. He expressed his discomfort in wearing short sleeves, stating that his head always tells him to wear long sleeves. This habit has been a part of his routine on the pitch, and he finds it difficult to imagine playing in short sleeves.
Havertz's preference for long sleeves dates back to his early days, and it has continued to be a part of his footballing career. During the World Cup and training camps in Singapore, where temperatures soared to 45°C, Havertz was seen wearing long sleeves, much to the amusement of his peers. Despite the heat, he has maintained this habit throughout his Arsenal career, and supporters have noticed that he wears long sleeves even when scoring goals for the club.
The German international's commitment to wearing long sleeves has been evident in his performances for both Arsenal and Germany. During Germany's World Cup campaign, Havertz continued to wear long sleeves despite the high temperatures. This season, he has made a strong start, scoring in three of Arsenal's first four competitive matches. His goals have contributed significantly to the team's performance, putting him level with Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard as the club's leading scorer.
Havertz's goal in last season's Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain remains one of his most memorable moments in an Arsenal shirt. He described the goal as his favourite, citing the emotional feeling and goosebumps he experienced after scoring. The goal, however, did not guarantee a win for Arsenal, as the London club eventually lost the match.
Havertz's superstition has become an integral part of his footballing identity. He believes that wearing long sleeves makes him feel more comfortable on the pitch. While some may view it as an unusual habit, Havertz has grown accustomed to it and cannot imagine playing without it. His teammates and supporters have come to accept this quirk, focusing on his impressive performances on the pitch.
As Havertz continues to make significant contributions to Arsenal's success, his personal preferences and superstitions remain an interesting aspect of his personality. His ability to maintain focus and deliver impressive performances, despite his unusual habit, is a testament to his professionalism and dedication to the sport. With his goal-scoring form showing no signs of slowing down, Havertz is set to remain a key player for Arsenal in the coming season.
Tosin Oyediran, the journalist who covered the story, is a seasoned reporter with over eight years of experience in covering politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment. His work focuses on public accountability, civic issues, and the stories shaping everyday lives. Oyediran's sharp interviews and human-centered reporting have earned him recognition in the journalism community.
Key points
- Havertz's superstition about wearing long sleeves has become an integral part of his footballing identity.
- The German international has maintained this habit throughout his Arsenal career, despite the heat.
- Havertz has made a strong start to the new season, scoring in three of Arsenal's first four competitive matches.
