Arsenal Confirm Kai Havertz Will Miss the Remainder of the Season Due to Injury
Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has been ruled out for the rest of the 2024-25 season after suffering a significant hamstring injury during the club’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai. The 25-year-old German international is set to undergo surgery and will continue his rehabilitation into the pre-season for the 2025-26 campaign, dealing a significant blow to Arsenal’s attacking options.
Arsenal’s German midfielder #29 Kai Havertz celebrates after scoring their third goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium in London on April 23, 2024. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
Arsenal officially confirmed that Havertz sustained the injury in a training session last week, with medical assessments revealing that surgery is necessary. The procedure is expected to take place in the coming days, after which Havertz will begin an extensive recovery process. The club has stated that his rehabilitation will extend into the pre-season, making his return for the start of the next campaign uncertain.
A club spokesperson issued a statement: “Kai Havertz has suffered a hamstring injury that requires surgery. Following the procedure, he will immediately begin a structured recovery program, with full support from our medical team. We are committed to ensuring Kai returns to peak fitness as soon as possible.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 31: Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Emirates Stadium on August 31, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Impact on Arsenal’s Attack
Havertz’s absence leaves manager Mikel Arteta with a depleted forward line, as the team was already struggling with injuries in the attacking department. Arsenal is now without a recognized striker for the remainder of the season, as Gabriel Jesus is recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are both sidelined with hamstring issues.
Havertz has been a crucial part of Arsenal’s attacking force, registering 15 goals and five assists across 34 appearances this season. His injury significantly reduces Arsenal’s firepower as they compete for Premier League glory and other honors.
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 25: Kai Havertz of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the winning goal during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Arsenal FC at Gtech Community Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Transfer Window Setbacks and Striker Shortage
Arsenal’s failure to secure reinforcements during the January transfer window has exacerbated their attacking woes. Arteta had previously expressed his frustration over the club’s inability to sign a new striker, with an attempt to sign Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins reportedly rejected. Additionally, potential moves for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and Brighton’s Evan Ferguson did not materialize.
Many pundits and fans had already voiced concerns over Arsenal’s lack of depth in the striking department, and Havertz’s injury has intensified those worries. With no senior strikers available, Arteta may be forced to utilize wingers Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling, or young talent Ethan Nwaneri as emergency center-forwards.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Kai Havertz of Arsenal reacts after a missed chance during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Arteta’s Response and Arsenal’s Title Ambitions
Arteta is expected to address Havertz’s injury situation in his upcoming press conference before Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Leicester City. The Spanish manager had previously hinted that Havertz would be required to start in every match due to the squad’s lack of striking options. His prolonged absence now forces Arsenal to find creative solutions for the remaining fixtures.
Arsenal is currently second in the Premier League, seven points behind leaders Liverpool. The team’s hopes of competing for silverware depend on how they cope with the growing injury crisis. Last season, a similar warm-weather training break resulted in a strong finish, with Arsenal winning 16 of their final 18 league games. The Gunners will be hoping for a repeat of that momentum to keep their title aspirations alive.
The loss of Kai Havertz is a major setback for Arsenal, especially given their failure to reinforce the squad in January. With multiple key players sidelined, Arteta must find a way to keep the team competitive in the title race. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Arsenal can overcome these challenges and continue their pursuit of Premier League glory.