Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah has praised Arsenal forward Kai Havertz ahead of their Champions League group-stage meeting, saying the German is 'still underestimated' and 'doesn't get the appreciation he deserves'.
Tah hails Arsenal's identity and Havertz's quality
Speaking to The Times, Tah applauded the 'identity' Arsenal have built under manager Mikel Arteta, recalling last season's encounter: 'Arsenal have been doing great the last years, the way they build this team and this identity. We faced them last year and felt how difficult it was to play against them.'
The Germany international, who played with Havertz at Bayer Leverkusen, described him as a 'good friend' and a 'great character, amazing player'. He added: 'It's more interesting if a team have a player you know and want to support. Kai is my good friend since ten years. Great character, amazing player, a player that is still underestimated to be fair. I don't think he gets the appreciation he deserves. We already talked about the game. I'm really looking forward to it.'
Bayern and Arsenal's contrasting form
The Allianz Arena hosts the clash between two of the competition's favourites. Arsenal have a 100 per cent record in the group so far, having beaten Napoli and Lille, while Bayern defeated Bodo Glimt before being held to a 3-3 draw away to Viking.
Arsenal reached last season's final, where Havertz scored in the sixth minute against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, only for Ousmane Dembele to equalise from the spot and the holders to win on penalties. Bayern were eliminated by PSG in the semi-finals.
Tah on Kompany's leadership influence
Tah also spoke highly of Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany, saying: 'He's someone who really sees the whole picture. Looks beyond the game, beyond the pitch. He's really focused on developing the personality of a player. He wants me to be a leader like he was. He's so young, you watch how he handles things as a coach and sometimes feel he's doing the same thing he would as a player. We're convinced that with this identity, if we bring it, we can win every game.'
Bayern enter the match after a 6-1 Bundesliga win over RB Leipzig, while Arsenal beat Nottingham Forest to make it six wins from seven at the start of their Premier League title defence.
