Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered an optimistic injury update on Kai Havertz, saying the German forward’s imminent return will bring a much-needed spark to the club’s attacking unit as the Gunners navigate a difficult patch in their Premier League campaign.
Havertz, sidelined since August with a knee injury, has returned to training and is expected to rejoin the squad within days, not weeks, according to Arteta. The news comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, who have struggled for goals in recent matches and have at times lacked offensive fluency.
A Struggling Attack in Need of Inspiration
Arsenal have found the back of the net from open play less frequently than usual over the past few weeks. The club has failed to score a non-penalty goal in its last three matches, a worrying trend for a team leading the Premier League and contending for the title.
Part of that offensive difficulty stems from an extended injury list that has seen several of Arsenal’s key attacking options unavailable. Forward Viktor Gyökeres, who recently returned from a muscle injury, has managed only one goal — a penalty — since his comeback, underscoring the team’s need for greater firepower.
In this context, Havertz’s anticipated comeback is being viewed as more than just a fitness update — it’s a potential turning point in Arsenal’s offensive performance.
Arteta’s Assessment and Expectations
Arteta spoke candidly about Havertz’s significance to the club, describing him as a player who “brings the team into a different dimension,” underlining his importance beyond mere attacking statistics. The Spaniard expressed his excitement at the prospect of having Havertz available again, saying the team missed his presence and that his return has the potential to elevate Arsenal’s attacking play.
“I think it will be a matter of days, if not weeks,” Arteta told reporters when outlining the forward’s progress. “Let’s see in the next step how (Havertz) responds to that. He’s a player that we missed a lot… so I’m really happy to have him back very soon.”
Havertz’s versatility — capable of playing as a false nine, attacking midfielder or support striker — gives Arteta tactical flexibility. His ability to link play, find pockets of space between defensive lines and contribute with crucial goals has proven valuable in recent seasons.
Boost for Title Challenge and Squad Depth
Arsenal’s title push in the 2025-26 Premier League campaign has been impressive but not without its challenges. While the Gunners sit at the top of the table, squad injuries have periodically disrupted form and rhythm. Havertz’s return represents a timely reinforcement not just for Arsenal’s attack, but also for squad depth as the festive fixture schedule continues.
Arteta and his coaching staff will assess Havertz’s fitness closely before deciding when he is ready to feature in competitive action. While returning too quickly could risk aggravating his condition, integrating him at the right moment could offer Arsenal a much-needed lift.
The Bigger Picture: Offensive Challenges and Opportunities
Getting Havertz back on the pitch could address a number of tactical issues for Arsenal. In recent games, the Gunners have shown creativity but lacked clinical finishing in the final third. Havertz’s movement and ability to connect midfield build-ups to forward threats could help bridge that gap and unlock defences that have been able to contain Arsenal’s attackers.
Moreover, the return of a player of Havertz’s quality can have ripple effects on team morale and confidence. His presence stretches opposition defences, creates space for teammates and gives Arsenal more attacking options, which could prove decisive in critical moments as the title race intensifies.
Balancing Return and Recovery
Despite the good news, Arteta has been careful not to rush Havertz back before he is fully ready. While the forward has resumed training and is close to match fitness, the manager and medical staff will continue to monitor his response to increased workload. This cautious approach ensures that Havertz’s return strengthens the team without compromising his long-term fitness.
What’s Next
With a demanding schedule ahead and key fixtures on the horizon, Arsenal’s hopes of maintaining their lead at the top of the Premier League hinge on contributions from their entire squad. Havertz’s return — combined with the gradual recovery of other players — could provide the offensive edge the Gunners need to sustain their momentum and thrive in one of European football’s most competitive leagues.
As supporters eagerly await his first appearance back on the pitch, Arsenal will continue preparing for upcoming challenges, hopeful that the return of Kai Havertz will signal a resurgence in form and a reinvigorated attacking threat.
