In a significant boost for Mikel Arteta's squad, forward Kai Havertz has been pictured back in first-team training at London Colney, marking a major step in his recovery from a long-term knee injury.
Step-by-Step Progress for German Star
Kai Havertz has been sidelined for the past four months after requiring minor surgery on a knee problem picked up following a brief substitute appearance on the season's opening day against Manchester United. His initial return was projected for late November or early December, but his rehabilitation took longer than first hoped.
Concerns over a potential setback were recently dismissed by manager Mikel Arteta, who stated before the victory over Everton: "He's progressing really well and quite fast in the last few weeks. We are really positive that if everything continues like that in the next training sessions, he's going to be with us."
Those comments were substantiated on Monday evening when the 26-year-old Germany international was spotted on the grass with his teammates. The club's official social media channels later shared three images of Havertz working in the gym, captioned with the optimistic message: "Step by step."
Timely Boost Amidst Festive Fixture Crunch
Havertz's imminent return is perfectly timed for Arsenal, coinciding with the demanding schedule of Premier League Christmas fixtures. His availability will provide Arteta with increased attacking options and depth.
However, the training pictures also raised a fresh concern, with defender Piero Hincapie notably absent. Meanwhile, striker Gabriel Jesus, who has also endured an extended spell out, is being carefully managed. Arteta confirmed the Brazilian is ready to start, potentially in Tuesday's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace, saying: "You can see now, not only in games, every day in training, how much he wants it. He's going to deserve a chance soon."
Injury List Remains a Concern for Arteta
Despite the positive news on Havertz, Arsenal's treatment room is still occupied by several key players. The current list of absentees includes:
- Gabriel Magalhaes – Out since the November international break but progressing well in his rehab.
- Cristhian Mosquera – Remains sidelined.
- Ben White – The latest player to suffer an injury setback.
- Max Dowman – Also currently unavailable.
Arteta offered hope regarding Gabriel's return, indicating the centre-back could be back before the end of the year: "He's pushing hard... he's evolving really well, he's doing pitch sessions so he's not too far."
The Gunners face a depleted Crystal Palace side in the Carabao Cup, with Oliver Glasner missing Daniel Munoz and Daichi Kamada through injury, while Jean-Phillipe Mateta is also dealing with a fitness issue.
