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Credit: Imago
Harri Burton
Fri 29 August 2025 21:37, UK
Kai Havertz received an emotional, loving message from Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhaes following the confirmation of his latest injury setback.
The 26-year-old forward missed much of the 2024/25 campaign through injury, joining the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus on the sidelines for the Gunners.
While Mikel Arteta’s striker issues have been addressed by Viktor Gyokeres, who experienced a difficult first 45 minutes for Arsenal against Leeds United, it appeared that Havertz was close to a return to full fitness.
Despite his injuries, the 26-year-old is clearly still a threat for the Gunners, notching 29 goals and 11 assists across the last two seasons in North London, but fans need to wait a little longer for his return.
Havertz has now undergone surgery on a knee problem, but even after his issues during the last campaign, his absence is not expected to be a very lengthy one this time around.
Arsenal v Manchester United, ManU – Emirates FA Cup Third Round LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 12: Kai Havertz of Arsenal walks off the pitch after the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Arsenal and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 12, 2025 in London, England.
Arsenal are playin…
Taking to Instagram on Friday (29 August), Havertz confirmed the crushing news at Arsenal, writing: “Small setback, thanks to the medical team for all the care and attention.
Back soon.”
Sharing the post to his Instagram story, Gabriel showed support for his teammate, responding, “Come back soon, brother,” with a love heart and praying emojis on social media.
Credit: Instagram
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Football Insider verdict
Arteta is under pressure to win silverware at Arsenal, and with the arrival of Gyokeres, it feels like the final piece of the puzzle has slotted into place for the Gunners.
The Swedish star now has two goals in his first two games, scoring Arsenal’s third and fifth in a five-goal demolition of newly promoted Leeds, but he will need to show much more in the final third.
Liverpool, Man City, Tottenham, and Chelsea have all strengthened during the summer window, so it will not be just as simple as focusing on their own games this season.
Credit: Imago
However, with deals done for Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, and, most recently, Eberechi Eze, the Gunners stand a very good chance of topping the table come the end of the season.
Of course, Arteta will be hoping to avoid any further long-term injuries this term, with those setbacks derailing the team’s efforts in the Premier League and Champions League last season.
Havertz’s surgery, while it may be upsetting to some, is not an enormous blow for the Gunners, given that Arteta now has Gyokeres to call upon for the centre-forward spot.