Arsenal new boy Kai Havertz got off the mark for his new club as he fired home the fifth goal in a 5-0 thrashing of the MLS all-stars on Thursday morning.
The Gunners kicked off their tour of the USA with a game against the all-stars, managed by former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney.
In a strong starting XI named by Mikel Arteta, his side took the lead after just five minutes when Gabriel Jesus fired home from outside the box, before their lead was doubled before half time by fellow attacker Leandro Trossard.
No stopping that one from @gabrieljesus9.#MLSAllStar Game pres. by @Target pic.twitter.com/pA80fk2ufT
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 20, 2023
Jorginho netted a penalty two minutes into the second half, before Gabriel Martinelli ran away to add a fourth.
Havertz’ goal was the icing on the cake, however, with the £65m man introduced at half time and opening his Arsenal account in the final minute of normal time.
Playing in midfield when he initially came on at half time, he was pushed up to join the attack late on, and got his reward when he thumped home a Marquinhos cross to add a fifth goal for the north London side, and complete an emphatic rout.
That’s @kaihavertz29 with his first goal for Arsenal.#MLSAllStar Game pres. by @Target pic.twitter.com/x0YQQXCl4F
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 20, 2023
“He gives us something different with his quality and his height,” the Gunners boss explained.
“For example, he can be the target man if we need to beat the press. He’s playing at the attacking midfield position for now but I’m sure throughout the season he’ll be used in different positions.”
Arsenal fans also got to see fellow new boys Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber in action, with the pair coming on for the final half an hour of the game.
