Kai Havertz scores as Arsenal thrash MLS All-Stars

• Arsenal played MLS All-Stars on Wednesday evening in Washington DC
• This was Arsenal’s second match in the ongoing pre-season but first for Declan Rice
• New signing Kai Havertz was on target as the Gunners thrashed the Americans 5-0

New Arsenal signing Declan Rice had his debut appearance for the club as Kai Havertz scored his first during their US tour, where they secured a dominant 5-0 victory against Wayne Rooney’s MLS All-Stars in Washington DC. Rice, the 24-year-old midfielder, completed his record-breaking £105 million move from West Ham just four days before the match.

The Gunners quickly took the lead with an impressive clipped effort from Gabriel Jesus, which found the back of the net off the far post. Leandro Trossard later extended the lead with a powerful strike from outside the box. A penalty converted by Jorginho, a composed finish from Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz’s first goal for Arsenal sealed the comprehensive win. The match also marked the first appearances of new signings Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice.

Arsenal new signing Declan Rice made his debut during the 5-0 thrashing of MLS All-Stars in Washington DC. | PHOTO: Sky Sports |

READ: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hints at more summer signings

A significant number of Arsenal supporters were present at Audi Field, where the club’s director, Josh Kroenke, received a warm reception. However, Wayne Rooney, the former Manchester United and England star and current manager of the MLS All-Stars, faced some jeers from the crowd.

Despite the All-Stars’ determination, they were unable to break through Arsenal’s defence. The Gunners dominated the first half, with Bukayo Saka setting up Trossard for a powerful right-footed strike. Jesus and Trossard almost combined for another goal, but the former’s header hit the side netting.

The second half started with a chance for Arsenal to score their third, as Tim Parker’s handball led to a penalty, which Jorginho converted confidently. However, Trossard had to be substituted due to an injury concern.

Arsenal continued to control the game after the substitutions, and Martinelli added another goal with a composed finish, assisted by Martin Odegaard. Havertz sealed the victory with a close-range finish in the 89th minute.

Overall, Arsenal’s dominant display and impressive performances from new signings Rice and Timber delighted the fans, making it a successful start to their US tour.