Arsenal have confirmed that forward Kai Havertz will miss the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury sustained during the team’s training camp in Dubai
The 25-year-old Kai Havertz will undergo surgery and is expected to continue his rehabilitation into the 2025-26 pre-season.
Major Blow for Arsenal’s Title Hopes
Havertz’s absence leaves Mikel Arteta’s side without a recognized striker for the remainder of the campaign, adding to an already concerning injury crisis. Striker Gabriel Jesus is also recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, while Bukayo Saka has been sidelined since December with a hamstring issue. Gabriel Martinelli, another key forward, sustained a hamstring injury last week and is expected to be out for over a month.
The German international has been a crucial figure for Arsenal this season, making 34 appearances and leading the club’s scoring charts with 15 goals and five assists.
Arteta Left Short-Handed
The latest injury setback adds pressure on Arteta, who previously admitted that Havertz might have to start every game due to a lack of attacking options. With the January transfer window closed and Arsenal failing to secure reinforcements, they now face a serious challenge in their Premier League title pursuit.
The Gunners had made an attempt to sign Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins in January, but their offer was rejected. Other rumored targets, including Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and Brighton’s Evan Ferguson, did not materialize.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Arsenal, currently second in the Premier League, trail leaders Liverpool by seven points. They were eliminated from the FA Cup in the third round by Manchester United and recently suffered a Carabao Cup semi-final exit to Newcastle. The team had hoped their warm-weather training in Dubai would set them up for a strong finish to the season, but Havertz’s injury now adds another hurdle.
Arteta is expected to address the situation in his Friday press conference ahead of their clash with Leicester City on Saturday. With key players out, the manager may have to rely on makeshift strikers like Leandro Trossard or academy prospect Ethan Nwaneri to lead the attack in the coming weeks.
Join our Channel...