Havertz aims to eclipse idol Kane in tonight’s Champions League

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has revealed that Harry Kane is his primary inspiration as the Gunners prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League tonight, 21 October 2026. The German side travel to Munich, and Havertz hopes the Tottenham legend will be off his game.

Havertz models his game on Kane

Havertz highlighted the similarity in style with the Bayern Munich forward, noting Kane’s habit of dropping deep rather than acting as a traditional No 9. When Men in Blazers Media Network asked the 27‑year‑old who he tries to emulate, he answered, “I love Harry Kane. For me he’s one of the best strikers I’ve seen in my life.” He said the English striker’s ability to link play and create chances is a key lesson for his own development.

He added that Kane “is probably also not a proper No9, but still the numbers he produces and also assists, and how he links up and helps the team when they’re deep… is amazing – so he is definitely someone that I look up to.” The German forward’s work rate and movement, Havertz believes, exemplify the modern centre‑forward role. This admiration shapes Havertz’s own approach to dropping into midfield.

Kane scored 280 goals for Arsenal’s rivals Spurs and has netted 155 in 157 games for Bayern since moving to Germany in 2023. Those figures underline his consistency across two of Europe’s top leagues. Havertz hopes to match that impact for Arsenal.

Arsenal brace for Saka's possible two‑month absence after Bayern clash

Arsenal’s striking battle ahead of the clash

Arsenal will travel to Germany for the Champions League group‑stage meeting, hoping to repeat the 3‑1 victory they secured last season. Within Arsenal, Havertz has started eight of the club’s eleven league matches this season and has found the net three times, while fellow striker Viktor Gyokeres – who joined for £67 million in summer 2025 – has started only against Napoli, Lille and Ipswich and is yet to score. The pair are both vying for Mikel Arteta’s preferred striker role.

Despite competing for Mikel Arteta’s top‑forward role, Havertz says his relationship with Gyokeres is strong: “We connected well from day one and no‑one is angry if someone else plays… He is a top guy and a top striker.” Their camaraderie extends beyond the pitch, helping maintain squad harmony. Both understand the importance of teamwork in a demanding season.

The two also partner in padel; Havertz joked that if asked who has the edge on court, Gyokeres would claim the advantage, “I think he has more power but I have the better technique!” This off‑field rivalry adds a light‑hearted dimension to their competition for minutes. It reflects the friendly spirit they maintain despite the on‑field battle.

As the Gunners aim to replicate last season’s 3‑1 win, Havertz will be hoping Kane is off his game tonight, leaving the outcome of the group‑stage encounter still in doubt. The match, set for tonight, promises a tactical showdown between two deep‑dropping forwards.