Former Rangers star Ally McCoist has expressed doubts about Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, stating that the Gunners need an “out-and-out” goalscorer capable of netting 24 goals a season. According to McCoist, such a player is essential to replace Kai Havertz in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
McCoist made these comments following Havertz’s underwhelming performance in Arsenal’s FA Cup third-round exit against a 10-man Manchester United on Sunday.
Havertz failed to find the back of the net and squandered several chances during the game. Arsenal eventually lost 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes, with Havertz missing a crucial spot-kick in the shootout.
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McCoist Criticizes Arsenal’s Lack of a True Striker
Speaking to talkSPORT, McCoist highlighted Arsenal’s lack of a reliable centre-forward as a key weakness:
“It’s come back to bite them that they don’t have an out-and-out goal scorer in the team.
“Kai Havertz, I think he’s a very good player, I really do, and I have liked him for a long time. I think he’s a very intelligent player, but an out-and-out centre-forward he is not.
“He can play the position as a kind of stopgap if you’re really struggling. He can play a false-10 or a false-nine, however you want to call it. He can do that, but not long term.
“To win the league, I just believe you’ve got to have somebody that’s going to get you 25 goals a season.”
Havertz’s Arsenal Journey Under Scrutiny
Havertz, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea for £65 million in 2023, has faced criticism despite being the club’s top scorer this season with 12 goals. However, McCoist believes the German international lacks the clinical edge needed to lead Arsenal’s attack.
While Havertz is recognized for his versatility and intelligence on the pitch, McCoist insists that Arsenal’s title ambitions hinge on signing a proven goal scorer to consistently convert chances into goals.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
As Arsenal continues to chase Premier League glory, the pressure is mounting on Mikel Arteta to address the squad’s shortcomings in front of goal. With the January transfer window approaching, the Gunners may need to consider bringing in a prolific striker to bolster their attack.
Will Arsenal heed McCoist’s advice and secure the firepower needed to challenge for the title? Only time will tell.
