Kai Havertz
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is set to undergo surgery on a knee issue, though the procedure is not considered major and the 26-year-old Germany international is not expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, according toThe Athletic’s David Ornstein.
The decision to proceed with surgery followed further medical assessments after Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed on August 22 that Havertz required “more tests” to determine the extent of the problem. Reports earlier in August had already suggested the forward was facing time out.
“Mentally, he’s in a good space,” Arteta said. “He’s really a strong boy, very committed. He had an incredible recovery from the hamstring surgery last season. He’s going to react in the best way possible.”
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Havertz showed resilience last season when he returned from a serious hamstring injury suffered during a mid-season training camp in Dubai, which sidelined him for several months. He managed to feature in Arsenal’s final two league fixtures of the 2024/25 campaign after an otherwise near-ever-present debut season, playing 37 of 38 matches following his £65 million move from Chelsea in 2023.
Kai Havertz injury
Kai Havertz (Image credit: Getty Images)
Havertz’s absence leaves Arsenal light in attack, with summer signing Viktor Gyokeres the only recognised No. 9 currently available. The Sweden international has already opened his account with a brace against Leeds. Gabriel Jesus, out since January with an ACL injury, has resumed ball work but will be eased back into action gradually.
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Arteta may again turn to midfielders Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard as makeshift strikers, both of whom filled in effectively last season. Merino scored six of his nine league goals when deployed up front, while Trossard offers versatility and creativity in deeper attacking positions.
To further strengthen their options, Arsenal moved in the transfer market to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £60 million plus add-ons, underlining their intent to stay competitive despite injury setbacks.
Havertz’s recovery will be closely monitored, but Arsenal remain optimistic he will return relatively soon to play a key role in their push for silverware this season.
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