Sign in

Calm Kai Havertz stands detached from celebrity culture

On Saturday night in Budapest, Havertz could become the unlikely symbol of the most important evening in Arsenal’s modern history.

Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates with the Premier League trophy, with teammates David Raya, Viktor Gyokeres, Riccardo Calafiori, William Saliba and Gabriel. Pic: Michael Regan/Getty Images

Fri, 29 May, 2026 - 06:55

Nick Callow

There are elite footballers who cultivate mystery, some who cultivate celebrity and others who build brands so polished they barely resemble real people anymore.

Then there is Kai Havertz, Arsenal’s quietly fascinating German forward, whose life away from football revolves less around supercars and nightlife than rescue donkeys, piano practice and dogs wearing Arsenal shirts.

CONNECT WITH US TODAY

WHATSAPP

NEWSLETTERS

NOTIFICATIONS

Be the first to know the latest news and updates

More in this section

Republic of Ireland Men Training Session and Media Conference

Dara O’Shea calls for relentless Ireland display against Austria

Broadcaster Danny Kelly dies aged 69

Broadcaster Danny Kelly dies aged 69

Andy Madley file photo

Liverpool should have had penalty for shirt-pull on Alexander Isak, panel rules

<p>Kevin Long arrives at Cork City. Pic via CCFC.ie</p>

'Great to be back' - Cork City confirm Kevin Long signing

Sport

Newsletter

Sign up to our daily sports bulletin, delivered straight to your inbox at 5pm. Subscribers also receive an exclusive email from our sports desk editors every Friday evening looking forward to the weekend's sporting action.

Sport

Newsletter

Sign up to our daily sports bulletin, delivered straight to your inbox at 5pm. Subscribers also receive an exclusive email from our sports desk editors every Friday evening looking forward to the weekend's sporting action.

IE_logo_newsletters

Check out our diverse library of newsletters and get the best of the Irish Examiner delivered straight to your inbox

© Examiner Echo Group Limited