Arsenal forward Kai Havertz will undergo surgery on a knee problem but is not expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The Germany international missed the 5-0 win over Leeds United last weekend after appearing from the bench in the opening-day victory against Manchester United.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed last week that Havertz required further tests before a decision was made, and surgery was deemed the best option.
The procedure is described as minor, with the hope that he will be out for weeks rather than months.
Arteta said Havertz remains positive despite the setback and praised the forward’s resilience.
He highlighted Havertz’s recovery from hamstring surgery last season, when he returned to action for the final two league matches.
That injury had kept him out for several months after being sustained during a warm-weather camp in Dubai.
Before then, Havertz had been an ever-present, playing in 37 of 38 Premier League games in his debut Arsenal campaign following his move from Chelsea in 2023.
His absence again leaves Arteta light in the central striker role.
Summer signing Viktor Gyokeres is currently the only fit No 9 available, having already opened his Premier League account with two goals against Leeds.
Gabriel Jesus remains sidelined after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear in January, though he has resumed individual ball work on the training pitch.
Arteta used both Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino as makeshift strikers last season when Havertz and Jesus were unavailable.
Trossard is the more natural deputy, though he offers a different style by drifting into spaces and linking play.
Merino proved effective in a Havertz-like role, scoring six goals while deployed up front in the spring.
Arsenal have already acted in the transfer market to offset Havertz’s absence.
England international Eberechi Eze has joined from Crystal Palace in a deal worth up to £67.5 million and has begun training with his new teammates.
The 26-year-old adds creativity and attacking depth, though he is not a direct replacement for Havertz.
Arsenal are also contending with injuries to Bukayo Saka, Christian Norgaard and Ben White, with Martin Odegaard a potential doubt, leaving Arteta with a stretched squad early in the season.
The Gunners face their toughest test so far on Sunday when they travel to Anfield to take on defending champions Liverpool.
Both sides have won their opening two fixtures, setting up a high-profile clash at the top of the table.