As Euro 2024 kick-off week arrives, could Kai Havertz be in the argument for the Golden Boot this summer?
With the football world gearing up for the 17th European Championships beginning on Friday, Germany host the Euros for first time as an independent nation.
Here at BestofBets, not only do we have our eye on Die Mannschaft going far, but the Arsenal man being amongst the goals.
Resurgent
As Germany prepares to welcome Europe to their front door, their own ambitions are without doubt loftier than mere months ago.
After the comedown from the heady days of the Low regime, Germany declined further under Hansi Flick, but now under Julian Nagelsmann, the Euro ’96 winners look in far better health.
👀 Nicht mehr lange! 🙌#dfbteam #ergo pic.twitter.com/nhDPy7hLDF
— DFB-Team (@DFB_Team) June 9, 2024
Despite winning just once in four games to end 2023, Nagelsmann then oversaw wins against France and the Netherlands.
A goalless draw with Ukraine in tournament warm-up, the Germans then netted two more against Greece, and have now done so in seven of nine, pointing to a way back to life in front of goal for the ‘three stages of Nagels’.
Maturing Havertz
Their revitalisation is down in no small part to Kai Havertz.
Despite struggles after moving to Chelsea from his native Bayer Leverkusen, the move to Arsenal – after initial widespread criticism – has been transformative.
Under the tutelage of Mikel Arteta, Havertz has made the false number nine his own in North London and now for the national side.
Having scored in half of his last four, he has also started the last four up top.
As it stands, Havertz looks locked in for the same role in the Euros, leaving Niclas Fullkrug as an impact sub.
Even if Fullkrug comes on later in proceedings, Havertz looks one of the least likely candidates switched and his chances for significant game time is good.
Euro savvy
The value of Havertz looks to be in Germany’s record in the Euros.
The Germans have reached three of the last eight Euro finals, in spite of recent malaise.
Placed with Scotland, Hungary and Switzerland could test the German mettle. However, if they top Group A, a mammoth last 16 clash with old rival England should be avoided.
Germany will start the tournament as 11/2 third favourites, but as hosts, home support can carry them far.
Havertz will be instrumental to their progress this summer, and at 25/1 with 888sport, his price looks inviting.
Euro 2024 kicks off on Friday 14 June as Germany face Scotland.
