Kai Havertz
Arsenal have been dealt another frustrating setback, with Kai Havertz now being monitored after picking up a knee issue, according to Sky Sports.
The timing couldn’t be worse, as the German international had only just returned from a lengthy hamstring injury that sidelined him between February and May. The Arsenal forward scored 9 goals and provided three assists last season.
The 26-year-old came off the bench in the Gunners opening fixture at Old Trafford, playing 30 minutes in the second half of the 2025/26 season. But the knee flare-up has forced the club to tread cautiously.
According to reports, Medical staff are waiting for the swelling to ease before carrying out further scans to assess the severity. His absence from Arsenal’s open training session at the Emirates on Wednesday quickly raised alarm bells among supporters, especially with a trip to Anfield looming on August 31.
A week ago, the big debate centred around whether Havertz or new signing Viktor Gyökeres should lead the line against Liverpool. Even Jamie Carragher believed Havertz was the man for the occasion. But this setback has shifted the spotlight firmly onto Gyokeres, who now looks likely to spearhead the attack in one of the clubs biggest early-season tests.
Arsenal Fever View
Arsenal’s struggles with injuries are nothing new. Last season’s title chase fell apart as Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Bukayo Saka all endured spells on the sidelines. While Saka has bounced back fully fit, Havertz’s knock again highlights the lack of reliable depth in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
In emergency scenarios, Mikel Merino could be pushed further forward, but that is far from ideal. Instead, much will depend on how quickly Gyokeres can adapt to the demands of English football, especially after a quiet debut at Old Trafford. For Arsenal to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool, their new striker will need to settle in fast.
As Arsenal fans, this feels like deja vu. Just when the squad looked set to hit full stride, another injury cloud loomed. Havertz had slowly been winning people over after his strong finish to last season, and many were excited to see him kick on in 2025.
To lose him now, right before a massive clash at Anfield, is a cruel blow. That said, this is exactly why Viktor Gyokeres was signed. Nights like these define strikers, and while his debut wasn’t sparkling, but he has the chance to announce himself with a big performance.
One goal in a fixture of this magnitude could instantly transform his confidence and standing in the squad. The broader concern is Arsenal’s injury trend. Last season collapsed because big players weren’t available at decisive moments, and there’s a fear the cycle could repeat.
The hope is that Havertz’s setback is only short-term. Until then, the onus is on Gyökeres and the rest of the frontline to step up and keep Arsenal’s momentum alive.