Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann says Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a knee injury but expects him to return before the end of the year.
Havertz, 26, has only featured once for Arsenal this season after undergoing surgery in August, with no timeframe given for his return.
Speaking after Germany’s win over Slovakia on Monday, Nagelsmann was asked about the condition of Havertz and Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala, who has been sidelined since fracturing his left fibula at the Club World Cup in July.
Nagelsmann replied: ““Kai has had a small relapse, but he is doing well. If all goes well, he can play again towards the end of the year.”
“Jamal no longer has any major problems. But like Kai, he first needs to get back into rhythm with his club.”
“They have until March to get fully fit, but they obviously need to stabilise now,” he continued.
Arsenal were without a recognised striker for the matches against Slavia Prague and Sunderland before November’s international break, with Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus all sidelined. As he did during the second half of last season, Mikel Merino led the line for Mikel Arteta’s side and scored twice in the victory over Slavia Prague.
Arsenal were also without Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli before the international break, while The Athletic reported on Tuesday centre-back Gabriel is set for further tests after sustaining an injury to his right thigh, with concerns he faces between one and two months out.
Nov 18, 2025
Connections: Sports Edition
Spot the pattern. Connect the terms
Find the hidden link between sports terms
Play today’s puzzle