Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been dealt a significant new injury concern as forward Kai Havertz faces a prolonged spell on the sidelines.
Setback Delays Havertz Comeback
The German international, who has been absent since August 17 after sustaining a knee injury against Manchester United, has suffered a complication in his rehabilitation. Havertz, 26, underwent minor knee surgery shortly after that opening Premier League fixture and was reportedly within a week of a first-team return in November before the setback occurred during his final training sessions.
This new development means the striker is now not anticipated to be available for matchday selection until early to mid-January. He has not yet returned to full training with the squad following the complication.
Potential Return Fixtures Identified
While a precise date remains uncertain, there is a possibility Havertz could be in contention for Arsenal's crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool on January 8. However, a more likely scenario sees him targeting the FA Cup third-round tie against Portsmouth on January 11 for his comeback.
This latest issue extends a frustrating and injury-hit period for the player. Last season, Havertz's campaign was disrupted by a hamstring tear suffered during a warm-weather training camp in February.
Arteta's Striker Concerns Mount
The extended absence of Havertz adds to the pressure on Arsenal's attacking options, particularly summer signing Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker, who joined for £63.5 million, has managed just six goals so far this season.
Arteta has recently defended Gyokeres, urging critics to "leave him alone" while acknowledging the need for more goals. The manager highlighted the challenge of adapting to the Premier League, stating he had questioned the striker on how he would cope if he didn't score for five or six games.
"He is a player that comes to a different league, the most demanding league in the world," Arteta said. "The sample is very small. So, leave him alone, let him do what he does best, be behind him and I'm sure things will turn out in the right way."
With Havertz's return pushed back, Arteta will be hoping Gyokeres can find form quickly to help Arsenal navigate a busy festive period and maintain their challenge at the top of the table.
