Kai Havertz's Ongoing Struggle: Another Injury Halts Arsenal Attacker's Comeback

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is set for another spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury. The Germany international has missed most of the 2025-26 season so far with various fitness issues, and is now expected to sit out several further matches, including next weekend's north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, due to a fresh problem. Havertz ended 2024-25 working his way back from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the final three months of the season. He then picked up a knee issue only a week into 2025-26 and spent the subsequent four-and-a-half months on the treatment table, making his return in the first half of January.Though Mikel Arteta has stressed Havertz's has needed to be eased back into the fold after such a long time out, the German has been hit by a new worry.According to The Athletic, Havertz has sustained a 'muscular injury'. It is not specified whether he picked this up in training or in their 3-0 win against Sunderland at the weekend.Havertz is now likely to miss Arsenal's games against Brentford this coming Thursday, Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup on Sunday, Wolves next Wednesday and then the north London derby away at Spurs next Sunday.Arteta did not name Havertz among the potential absentees ahead of the trip to Brentford, though was only specifically asked about Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Leandro Trossard and Max Dowman.He said: "Max is still not available. The rest we will see with the medical team."The Arsenal boss was also asked about Mikel Merino, who recently underwent surgery on his foot. He added: "The doctors were really happy with the way it went. The time frame we're talking about is months, whether it's three, four or five, I don't know."Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingHavertz has only made seven appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season, scoring two goals and laying on two assists, notably grabbing the winner against former club Chelsea in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final last week. He is facing a race against time to build fitness ahead of the business end of the Gunners' season as well as for Germany's World Cup campaign.Auto translated by GOAL-e

The Road to Recovery: A Season Marred by Injuries

Kai Havertz's turbulent journey through the 2025-26 season has been notably marked by his struggles with fitness setbacks. Starting with a hamstring injury towards the end of the previous season, Havertz faced a lengthy recovery period only to be plagued by a knee issue shortly after the new campaign began. Now, a 'muscular injury' has once again sidelined the talented German forward, adding to his already lengthy list of absences.

Arsenal's Managerial Approach and Player's Progress

Manager Mikel Arteta has been cautious in reintegrating Havertz back into the squad following his extended periods on the treatment table. Despite showcasing moments of brilliance, Havertz's lack of consistent game time has hindered his ability to reach peak form. His recent injury setback further complicates his return to full fitness, with critical matches on the horizon for Arsenal.

Implications for Arsenal's Upcoming Fixtures and Havertz's Future

With Kai Havertz expected to miss key fixtures against Brentford, Wigan Athletic, and Wolves, in addition to the crucial North London derby clash with Spurs, Arsenal will need to navigate these challenges without their star attacker. Havertz's limited appearances this season have showcased his potential impact, particularly highlighted by his decisive performance against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup. However, his race against time to regain match fitness poses significant concerns for both Arsenal's season and his aspirations for the upcoming World Cup with Germany.