Arteta Drops Major Hint on Havertz Comeback Following Four-Month Injury Nightmare

Mikel Arteta has hinted that Kai Havertz might return to action wearing an Arsenal jersey within "a matter of days," after being sidelined for the past four months due to a knee injury.

Havertz, who was out for three months last season with a hamstring tear, hasn't featured since a 30-minute cameo against Manchester United on the 2025–26 season opener.

The German striker sustained his knee issue several days afterward, requiring surgical intervention. A complication earlier this month pushed back Havertz's initially anticipated comeback, but Arteta remains optimistic that his £65 million ($87.9 million) attacker won't be absent much longer.

"Quite close," was how the Arsenal manager characterized the circumstances around Havertz's return ahead of Saturday's Premier League encounter with Brighton & Hove Albion.

"I believe it will be a matter of days if not weeks. Let's observe in the next phase how he reacts to that. He's a player we've really missed. A player who elevates the team to another level. So, genuinely excited to welcome him back soon."

Havertz Return a Timely Boost for Arsenal

Havertz's unavailability has been noticeable. With summer acquisition Viktor Gyökeres also experiencing periods on the treatment table this campaign, it has forced Mikel Merino to occasionally step into the striker role. The Spanish midfielder has performed admirably, finding the net against Slavia Prague (2), Chelsea and Brentford during several No. 9 appearances dating back to early November, though it's not a sustainable arrangement.

However, the approaching comeback of Havertz, combined with witnessing Gabriel Jesus return to action in recent matches, and Gyökeres now consistently featuring again after his November absence, represents a significant lift for Arsenal during a crucial period when squad depth becomes paramount.

Beyond providing additional options for Arteta's selection, both Havertz and Jesus could offer the competitive pressure that Gyökeres requires to deliver reliable performances.

The £63.5 million Swedish forward has yet to ignite in an Arsenal uniform. With only three non-penalty strikes in the Premier League thus far, it highlights the magnitude of the risk the Gunners accepted for a player lacking top-flight experience before 2023 and completely untested in a 'Top Five' European competition.