Gunners make 'surgery decision' on Havertz as return timeframe touted
Gunners make 'surgery decision' on Havertz as return timeframe touted
© Imago
Arsenal have taken the decision to allow Kai Havertz to undergo surgery for a knee issue, but the procedure is not expected to keep him out for a long time, the latest report has claimed.
The Gunners sit at the summit of the Premier League after two matchweeks, with the club's 5-0 victory against Leeds United last Saturday seeing them enter their clash against Liverpool at Anfield ahead of the champions due to goal difference.
Mikel Arteta will not have talisman Bukayo Saka available for that match as the winger is dealing with a hamstring injury, while striker Havertz is also set to miss out.
The forward picked up a knee issue against Leeds, and fears regarding his injury sparked the Gunners into a response in the transfer market, signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.
David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that while the German international is set to undergo surgery, he is not expected to miss a lengthy period for Arsenal before making his return.
Arsenal's Kai Havertz pictured on August 9, 2025
Arsenal's Kai Havertz pictured on August 9, 2025
Kai Havertz injury latest: What games could Arsenal star miss?
Havertz has been ruled out of his side's game against Liverpool on Sunday, and Arteta will be pleased that the onset of the September international break after the weekend's clash will mean that he misses fewer matches.
The Gunners will face Nottingham Forest in their first game back from the break on September 13, and they will play their first Champions League outing in the following midweek period.
Arsenal will play another match in Europe towards the end of September, and they will also take on Manchester City, Newcastle United and West Ham United before the start of the October international break.
Arteta's side then return to action on October 18, and if reports about the severity of Havertz's injury are to be believed, perhaps he could return in late Autumn.
Arsenal's Kai Havertz celebrates on August 9, 2025
Arsenal's Kai Havertz celebrates on August 9, 2025
Can Viktor Gyokeres lead Arsenal's attack in Havertz's absence?
While Havertz would likely not have been selected in the starting lineup against Liverpool due to the fact the Londoners bought number nine Viktor Gyokeres this summer, he has caused the Reds issues in the past.
The German has found success combatting the likes of Ibrahima Konate, and while Gyokeres is able to hold his own against physical centre-backs, he made the most impact during counter-attacks when there was more space for Sporting Lisbon.
It remains to be seen how the Swede will handle playing against deeper blocks, with clashes against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United sure to test his suitability under Arteta.
Even if Gyokeres manages to perform well for Arsenal, the Gunners will no doubt miss having Havertz as an option from the bench.
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