Arsenal are monitoring Kai Havertz’s fitness closely after his ongoing knee problem resurfaced following his return from a prolonged spell on the sidelines, according to reports.
The Germany international has not started a match for the Gunners since August 17. He recently made his return as a second-half substitute in Arsenal’s FA Cup third-round victory over Portsmouth and also featured briefly, playing eight minutes, in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea.
Havertz is understood to have fast-tracked his comeback after suffering ligament damage in a clash with Manchester United, but the injury has since flared up again.
As a result, manager Mikel Arteta is being cautious with the midfielder’s playing time.
His absence from the bench in Arsenal’s Champions League encounter with AC Milan raised eyebrows among supporters, though it is believed he is still some way from peak condition.
The club are reportedly worried that Havertz may not regain full fitness in the near future, meaning his involvement will need to be carefully managed for the rest of the season and possibly longer. Despite this, he is expected to be eased back with limited minutes over the coming weeks.
Arteta has previously highlighted Havertz’s qualities, saying: “If everything goes well, I think he’s going to be in the squad again in the next few days.
“He trains well, he’s increased his load, he’s coping with that really well and he will be ready when we can have him.”
Speaking on the expectations placed on the attacker, the Arsenal boss added, “Yes, but I understand this is the level as well. And when a player has the chance to put our shirt on and compete for us, you know that the demands are excellence – and that’s it. Kai is aware of that.”
