The inseparable bond between Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard is powering Arsenal's resurgent early-season form, according to a report from Daily Mail Sport. The pair have combined for seven of the club's ten goals across all competitions this term, a partnership forged as much off the pitch as on it.
Arsenal's strong start sees them second in the Premier League with nine points from three wins, scoring six goals and conceding just one. The Gunners' next test is an away trip to face Sunderland on Saturday, September 12th. You can view the full upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page.
How did their partnership begin?
Martin Odegaard was the first player to text Kai Havertz when the German international completed his £65 million move from Chelsea in June 2023. The Norwegian captain has made a habit of welcoming new signings, reaching out to Viktor Gyokeres and Mikel Merino as well. "He did the same for other players, too, like Gyokeres and Mikel Merino," Odegaard said. His support extends beyond the pitch, offering advice on where to live and where to eat, and maintaining an open-door policy for any teammate needing help.
What is their off-pitch relationship like?
Away from the training ground, Havertz and Odegaard behave more like brothers than colleagues. They holidayed together in Ibiza during the 2024 off-season and Havertz served as a groomsman at Odegaard's wedding. Their wives, Sophia Weber and Helene Spilling, have also become close friends, with both couples welcoming children in recent years. The bond is so well-known at the club's London Colney headquarters that it has become a running joke among staff and players.
How has Odegaard supported Havertz through adversity?
The captain's role became key during a difficult period for Havertz and his family. In January 2025, after Havertz had a penalty saved in an FA Cup defeat to Manchester United, his wife Sophia was subjected to horrific abuse on Instagram, including threats against their then-unborn child. Odegaard stayed in close contact throughout the ordeal, offering consistent support to the family. This behind-the-scenes leadership is highly valued by manager Mikel Arteta and his staff, with Odegaard maintaining an active presence even when injured last season, gathering team preferences and helping organize matchday details.
How has this translated to on-field success?
After both players battled significant injuries last campaign, their fitness and understanding have been central to Arsenal's bright start. Havertz ended a nine-game goal drought with his first Arsenal strike against Bournemouth in September 2023, assisted by Odegaard. This season, their link-up has been prolific. Odegaard has four goals in five matches, including a strike in the Champions League away to Napoli, a game where Arsenal's expected goals tally exceeded four. Havertz has also found the net, notably capitalizing on a clever dummy to score against his former club Chelsea. Their combined contribution shows their importance to the attacking unit, which fans can explore further in the team's stats.
With a perfect league record so far, the understanding between Havertz and Odegaard provides a solid foundation. Arsenal's squad depth and current form will be tested as they prepare for the trip to the Stadium of Light this weekend, looking to maintain their 100% start to the Premier League season.
