Arsenal are hopeful that Kai Havertz will return to action sooner rather than later after the German forward underwent minor knee surgery. The 26-year-old missed last weekend’s 5-0 victory over Leeds at the Emirates, having picked up the injury in the Gunners’ opening Premier League clash of the season against Manchester United.
The north London club confirmed on Thursday that Havertz had undergone a “minor surgical procedure” and is expected to be sidelined for weeks rather than months. “Following assessments and specialist reviews, it was decided surgery would be required,” Arsenal said in a statement. “Kai has now had a successful operation and will soon begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme. Everyone at the club is focused on supporting him back to full fitness as quickly as possible.”
The setback comes just days after Arsenal secured the high-profile signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace in a deal worth around £60 million. Eze, who was unveiled to the Emirates crowd before the win over Leeds, is in line to make his debut away at champions Liverpool on Sunday as Arsenal look to sustain an early title challenge and end a two-decade wait for a Premier League crown.
Mikel Arteta’s preparations for the trip to Anfield are far from ideal, with Bukayo Saka (hamstring) and captain Martin Odegaard (ankle) both ruled out following injuries against Leeds. Christian Norgaard and Ben White face late fitness tests, while striker Gabriel Jesus remains a long-term absentee with a knee problem.
