Mikel Arteta has spoken out on the abuse levelled at Kai Havertz (Image: Getty)
manager has lashed out at those who sent threatening messages to and his wife after Sunday’s defeat to .
Havertz had a tough afternoon at the Emirates, where he spurned a chance from close-range and missed a penalty in the shootout. United edged the third-round clash despite playing an hour of the match with 10 men following ‘s dismissal.
After the final whistle, Havertz’s wife Sophia posted on her story two messages which included threats to her unborn child. She called them ‘shocking’ and urged supporters to be ‘more respectful’.
Now, Arteta has had his say. And he fears there will be ‘terrible consequences’ unless something serious is done.
“It’s incredible, honestly,” said the Spaniard. “We really have to do something about it, because accepting this, I think, has terrible consequences. It’s so cynical, so dependent on action.
“December 27 at home, we win 1-0 and scores a goal, the whole stadium is singing the Waka Waka. Guys, what is the perspective? Everyone is responsible for the narrative. That is a really serious matter. It affects him, it affects me.”
Kai Havertz had a tough game against Man Utd (Image: Getty)
have reported the abuse to the police and work is being done to try and identify the culprits. Havertz and Sophia have been together since 2018, they tied the knot last year and announced in November that their first child is on the way.
Former Bayer Leverkusen and star Havertz has netted 26 times in 78 games since signed him for in 2023. He is the Gunners’ top scorer in the this season with seven goals.
The German international will be back in action when ‘s bitter north London rivals, , travel to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night. And Arteta wants the fans to play their part.
“It’s probably the nicest game of the season to watch and to play in because of what it means to our people,” he said. “Let’s create the best atmosphere that we have ever played at the Emirates. That’s the objective for the players, staff and the supporters that turn up. It’s something we can do, so let’s do it.”
Arteta has confirmed that Jorginho and Jurrien Timber will both be ready for action after being subbed off against United. will be assessed before the game, while Gabriel Jesus will miss out due to a suspected ACL rupture.