Arsenal’s ongoing injury woes have intensified once again after Kai Havertz experienced an untimely setback in his recovery, pushing back his anticipated return until mid-January. The German forward had been closing in on a long-awaited comeback, with his name expected to be back in Mikel Arteta’s matchday plans within days, only for complications in training to derail that progress. The development represents another frustrating obstacle for the Gunners as they navigate a packed fixture schedule during a crucial stage of the title race.
Havertz setback forces Arsenal to revise timeline
Arsenal’s medical team has been forced to extend Havertz’s absence after fresh concerns emerged during the final phase of his rehabilitation. According to reports, the 26-year-old will now remain sidelined until early or mid-January following issues linked to his recovery from knee surgery. Havertz has not played since suffering the injury in Arsenal’s opening Premier League match of the season against Manchester United on August 17.
The forward underwent minor knee surgery shortly after that game, with early indications suggesting he could return before the end of the year. Encouraging signs during October and November reinforced optimism around the club, as Havertz steadily progressed through his rehabilitation programme and edged closer to full training.
That optimism, however, was short-lived. During what was expected to be his final week before squad reintegration, Havertz encountered a problem in training that forced Arsenal’s medical staff to halt his progress. With the issue occurring just days before a planned return to match involvement, the setback effectively reset his recovery timeline and delayed his comeback until the new year.
Another headache for Arteta at a crucial stage
Havertz’s prolonged absence could hardly come at a worse time for Arsenal, who are currently balancing domestic and European ambitions amid a relentless run of fixtures. While results have largely remained positive, Arteta has been forced to continually adapt his plans due to a lack of available personnel, particularly in attacking areas.
The Gunners’ squad has already been tested by injuries across multiple positions this season, stretching depth and reducing rotation options. Although the return of a few senior players has helped ease some pressure, the continued unavailability of Havertz limits Arteta’s tactical flexibility during a period where fine margins can define a title challenge.
Arsenal’s commitments across competitions further compound the issue. Alongside their Premier League campaign, the north London side is also competing in the Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup, increasing the physical demands on a squad already operating without full strength. With Manchester City maintaining relentless pressure in the league, any delay to the return of key contributors risks impacting momentum during the festive period.
A frustrating pattern of injuries for Havertz
Havertz’s latest setback is part of a difficult injury narrative that has followed him throughout the year. Earlier in 2025, the German international suffered a hamstring tear during Arsenal’s warm-weather training camp in February, an issue that interrupted his rhythm and limited his availability during the latter stages of last season.
The knee injury sustained against Manchester United at the start of the current campaign marked another significant interruption. While the surgery that followed was initially described as routine, the recovery has proven more complicated than anticipated. Each positive update has been met with further caution, as Arsenal remain determined not to risk a premature return that could lead to long-term complications.
The most recent issue arose during what was supposed to be the final stretch of Havertz’s rehabilitation. Rather than easing him back into full training, Arsenal have opted for a more conservative approach, keeping him away from competitive action entirely while the situation is carefully monitored.
Mid-January is now the realistic target
Arsenal are now working towards mid-January as the most realistic timeframe for Havertz to be match-fit. While there is a slim possibility that he could be included for the Premier League clash against Liverpool on January 8, that scenario remains unlikely unless his recovery accelerates significantly.
Instead, the FA Cup third-round tie against Portsmouth on January 11 is viewed internally as a more suitable opportunity for Havertz to make his return, allowing him to be eased back into action rather than thrown straight into high-intensity league competition.
Until then, Arteta must continue to manage his attacking options carefully. Havertz’s absence adds to an already lengthy injury list that includes Gabriel Magalhaes, Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White, and Max Dowman, limiting options across defence and midfield as well as in forward areas.
For Havertz, the priority remains a clean and sustainable return. After a season repeatedly disrupted by injuries, Arsenal’s medical staff are determined to avoid another relapse that could prolong his absence even further. As the Gunners push forward on multiple fronts, patience will be required — both from the player and the club — in a campaign already shaped by fitness challenges and constant adaptation.