Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has withdrawn from Germany’s squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures in October due to a knee injury.
This setback comes at a time when the 24-year-old has been showcasing exceptional form at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, significantly contributing to Arsenal’s strong start in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Havertz’s recent performances have been particularly noteworthy; he scored his fourth goal in four games during Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Southampton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. That goal marked his sixth in all competitions this season, solidifying his role as a key player for the Gunners.
Manager Mikel Arteta will be closely monitoring Havertz’s recovery over the coming weeks, as the team prepares to continue their title challenge against Bournemouth later this month.
Germany’s national team confirmed Havertz’s absence through a post on X, stating, “Kai Havertz will miss the upcoming international matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Netherlands due to knee problems.”
After the win over Southampton, Arteta praised Havertz’s dedication and potential, saying, “When he’s practicing, he wants more, and he’s not satisfied with what he’s doing because there is still, I think, another level from him. Obviously, he’s surrounded by incredible players, but something has changed in him, and that confidence, you really sense it, and now he’s putting it into games and he’s winning football matches, which is great.”
Arsenal faced the match against Southampton without several key players, including Jurrien Timber and Ben White, who did not make the matchday squad.
However, both defenders are optimistic about returning once club football resumes. Additionally, captain Martin Ødegaard is expected to make a comeback by late October.
On a positive note, summer signing Mikel Merino made his second appearance for Arsenal, while Takehiro Tomiyasu returned to the pitch for the first time this season, providing Arteta with more options as they gear up for their upcoming challenges.
