Kai Havertz’s imminent return: a boon for Arsenal
Kai Havertz’s return is hanging in the air like a promise. One that gets the Emirates buzzing before the ball’s even rolled. In the last few days Mikel Arteta’s tone has shifted. He won’t commit, won’t guarantee anything for the trip to Brighton, but his smile says the rest. The German isn’t far off. And for Arsenal, that’s anything but small change.
Mikel Arteta has said that he thinks Kai Havertz will return to the Arsenal squad ‘in a matter of days’ after being out with injury since August 🗓️🔴 pic.twitter.com/U6dEEexPUa
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 26, 2025
A season start stopped cold
Havertz barely had time to settle into the season before his knee reminded him who’s in charge. First match, barely half an hour, and the Germany international was forced off. A harsh blow, especially since Arteta’s plan relied on his energy, his runs, his ability to play between the lines. Yet Arsenal didn’t wait to fire up. 31 goals already. An attacking rhythm that makes your head spin and proof of a squad depth finally being used. But beneath that success one thing remains clear: Havertz was missing.
Another attacking weapon
Because beyond the style, Havertz brings volume. Last season proved it — 15 goals in all competitions, 9 in the Premier League, his best return in England. Add 4 assists and you get a player who isn’t built on flashes but on consistency. A player who can change a game’s shape just by occupying the right spaces. His return widens Arteta’s options and could redraw Arsenal’s attacking animation, already lethal at the start of this campaign.
Very encouraging signs
This week felt like a turning point. Havertz is back in full training, and Arteta, usually so measured, didn’t hide his optimism. “Days, not weeks,” the manager said. Let’s see how he handles the next steps. Short sentence. Heavy meaning. When Arteta says days, the door’s already ajar. For the fans it’s a fresh hit of optimism. For the locker room it’s a reminder: reinforcements are arriving at the right time.
The piece that lifts the team
The truth is Arsenal need Havertz. No fluff. Arteta said it himself: we’ve missed him a lot. He’s a player who lifts the team a level. In an already well-oiled group the German adds flair, mobility and that rare ability to make the game breathe. His return is more than just a comeback. It’s the chance to see the side step up at key moments, when creativity and cool heads decide whether you finish on the podium or go for the title.
So yes, the next few days will be decisive. Yes, his presence against Brighton is still up in the air. But one thing’s certain: Arsenal are about to get back a keystone. A piece that can change the tempo, the pace, and maybe even the Gunners’ ambitions. The club already started the season on high. With Havertz back in the mix, what’s coming could have a very different edge.
Photo credit: Stu Forster / GETTY IMAGES
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