Arsenal sweat on Havertz after forward limps out of Germany duty
Arsenal are waiting on the full extent of an injury to Kai Havertz after the forward was forced off during Germany's Nations League opener against the Netherlands.
According to Sky Sports, Havertz pulled up after a first-half challenge from Quinten Timber in Thursday's 1-1 draw in Amsterdam and was replaced by Younes Ebnoutalib. The problem is understood to be a minor muscle strain, but he has left the national team camp to be treated by Arsenal's medical staff and will sit out the rest of the international window.
Germany boss Jurgen Klopp confirmed that Havertz and Bayern Munich's Jamal Musiala, who was also hurt on the night, were both being sent for MRI scans. Florian Wirtz and Jonathan Burkardt have been called up in their place.
A familiar worry for Arteta
The timing is awkward for the Premier League champions. Havertz had started six of Arsenal's eight games in all competitions this season, scoring three goals, and his fitness record has been a recurring concern. He managed only seven Premier League starts last season because of knee and muscle problems, and a hamstring tear ruled him out of the final three months of the 2024-25 campaign.
If he misses time, Viktor Gyokeres is Arsenal's only recognised centre-forward, although Mikel Merino has also been used through the middle.
There is some breathing room, at least. The injury came early in the international break, and Arsenal's next fixture is not until October 10, when they host Leeds in the Premier League.
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