Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that forward Kai Havertz could make a surprise return from injury before the end of the season, a boost to the Gunners’ hopes of Champions League glory.
Havertz, who picked up a hamstring injury during a training camp in Dubai back in February, was initially ruled out for the remainder of the campaign after undergoing surgery. However, recent social media videos of the German international stepping up his rehabilitation have raised hopes of an earlier-than-expected comeback.
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Arteta gives positive update on recovery
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Brentford,
“Hopefully, we can have him back before the end of the season. Let’s see. Every injury isn’t the same. He has a great work ethic and is desperate to get back playing as quickly as possible. We also have a fantastic medical staff supporting him. Once you get to the last stage of that rehab, you can understand better how close or far you are to making that next step.”
Havertz’s return would relieve injury-struck attack
Havertz has netted 17 goals in all competitions this season and was a key figure in Arsenal’s attack before his setback. His return would ease the burden on a thin attacking line, especially with Arteta forced to use Spain midfielder Mikel Merino as a striker in the absence of both Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
The 25-year-old famously scored the winning goal in Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League final and could bring invaluable experience if Arsenal progress to this year’s final.
Momentum builds after Real Madrid victory
The Gunners are in high spirits following their stunning 3-0 first-leg victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday — a result widely praised as one of the greatest in the club’s storied European history.
“There has been an unbelievable energy around the place. It was a very special night,” Arteta said. “That’s over, and now our full focus is on Brentford because it is a game that will require the best of us.”
With the crucial return leg in Madrid coming up on Wednesday, Arteta refused to confirm whether he would rotate his starting XI against Brentford.
“Just normality,” he said. “This is our context — playing every three days and competing on the biggest stages. If you want to become a team that can win in any competition, then you have to rise to that challenge every three days, no matter the scenario.”
