Arsenal striker Kai Havertz has received high praise for a recent dummy against Chelsea, an act described as 'delightful' by Max Rushden. The move, which saw Havertz lift his left leg at the last second to allow the ball to run through to Martin Ødegaard, has been highlighted as a moment of 'grace' in the sport.
Rushden suggested that such a display of skill, executed in a split second without even touching the ball, could be considered more aesthetically pleasing than a Lionel Messi or Diego Maradona waltz through a defence. He noted the difficulty of creating such moments given the pace of modern football.
Havertz's ability to deliver on big occasions was also acknowledged, having scored in two Champions League finals and won the league last season. Rushden commented that when Havertz performs well, it appears effortless to him.