Augustine MuthuriArsenal have suffered another significant injury setback with Kai Havertz ruled out for the rest of the season. The German international sustained a torn hamstring during the team’s training camp in Dubai, as reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic. While the need for surgery remains uncertain, Havertz’s campaign is definitively over. This unfortunate incident compounds Arsenal’s already extensive injury list, which recently saw Gabriel Martinelli added with a hamstring injury of his own.
Despite facing criticism regarding his finishing, Havertz has been a key figure for the Gunners, contributing 15 goals across all competitions, including a team-leading 9 in the Premier League. His value extends beyond goalscoring, however. Havertz’s hybrid role as a midfielder and forward is essential to Arsenal’s pressing game and their overall play in the middle third. His absence will be keenly felt.
The timing of this injury crisis couldn’t be worse for Arsenal. With Martinelli also sidelined and Bukayo Saka unavailable until at least March, three of their preferred starting attackers are now out of action. This comes after both Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Jesus also endured significant injury spells earlier in the season.
Arsenal’s current injury situation is truly remarkable. No amount of squad planning can fully prepare for this many key players being unavailable simultaneously. Their misfortune with injuries this season starkly contrasts with their relatively healthy squad last year.
Whether a January attacking signing could have mitigated the current crisis is a complicated question. It might have lessened the workload on certain players, potentially preventing some injuries, but it’s not the only contributing factor. The congested football calendar and the short summer breaks afforded to players like Saka and Havertz due to international tournaments have undoubtedly played a role. Player fatigue and the sheer volume of games are taking a toll.
So, where do Arsenal go from here?
A short-term, free agent signing is unlikely. The available options aren’t ideal. The most straightforward solution might be to deploy Leandro Trossard as the central striker, with Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling on the wings. This maintains relative consistency in formation and roles. Arteta has previously hinted at Nwaneri’s potential as a long-term number nine, although his readiness for the defensive responsibilities of that role is debatable.
Arteta could also opt for a tactical shift. This might involve increased roles for players like Mikel Merino, Kieran Tierney, and Oleksandr Zinchenko. Zinchenko’s versatility and quality on the ball could be valuable in creating opportunities.
Knowing Arteta, he might prioritize defensive stability. Arsenal’s defense has been a strong point, and focusing on that could be a sensible approach. The objective is to navigate the next few weeks with minimal damage and remain in contention for Champions League qualification.
The eventual return of Martinelli and Saka will provide much-needed reinforcements. Arsenal have faced numerous challenges this season, and this is yet another. Their ability to weather this storm will be crucial to their ultimate success.
