Havertz draws on Chelsea's 2021 triumph as Arsenal prepare for PSG final

Kai Havertz is targeting a second Champions League winner’s medal, four years after scoring the only goal as Chelsea defeated Manchester City in the 2021 final in Porto. The German striker, now at Arsenal, says that night remains the defining moment of his career and is using it as motivation ahead of Saturday’s final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.

“As a kid I could have never dreamt that I would score a goal in the final and win that game,” Havertz said. “It is a moment I will never forget. I will always be proud of it. I just try to take that feeling to next Saturday and, hopefully, I will get that feeling again.”

Havertz was quick to stress that Arsenal’s position heading into this final differs significantly from Chelsea’s in 2021, when Thomas Tuchel’s side were considered clear underdogs. “Obviously now it is completely different,” he said, adding that he cannot wait to “bring the trophy home to North London.”

The 25-year-old joined Arsenal in the summer of 2023 and has endured a mixed second season at the club, contributing quality and goals while also missing significant time through injury. Manager Mikel Arteta has consistently pointed to Havertz’s winning mentality — forged through Champions League and international football with Germany — as an asset beyond his technical ability.

Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, also part of that Chelsea squad in Porto, is another member of Arsenal’s squad who carries direct experience of winning the competition.

Havertz described the Champions League as the ultimate test in club football. “Along with the Premier League, it is probably the hardest competition to win,” he said. “There is just so much history with it. So many big players played in it. And to be there, to compete to win the trophy, is amazing.”

On the challenge that still lies ahead, he was measured: “You need to get there, and then you still have to make that step and win it. It is going to be hard, but I think we are going to be well prepared.”

Havertz scored his 2021 winner just before half-time at the Estádio do Dragão, a moment that defined Chelsea’s season under Tuchel. He will hope Budapest provides a similarly decisive contribution.