Arsenal star Kai Havertz set to miss international fixtures as he withdraws from Germany squad following injury

Arsenal star Kai Havertz has withdrawn from Germany’s squad for their upcoming Nations League matches against Bosnia & Herzegovina and the Netherlands on October 11 and 14, respectively. The forward reportedly suffered a knee injury during Arsenal’s recent win over Southampton (via @afcstuff).

Havertz has certainly been in excellent form for both club and country this season, with four goals and one assist in seven games. The 25-year-old was most recently on the scoresheet against Southampton on October 5, netting a superb goal from edge of the penalty area to level the proceedings, which Arsenal eventually won 3-1.

Havertz’s improvement has not been limited to his goal-scoring; his overall play, including his ability to hold up the ball and link up with teammates, has been crucial for Mikel Arteta’s side, who are currently unbeaten in all competitions this season.

Consequently, his absence is a significant blow for Germany and head coach Julian Nagelsmann, who started Havertz in both of the previous international break games, where he even scored against Hungary.

Replacing Havertz is 24-year-old Mainz 05 forward Jonathan Burkardt, who has also been in outstanding form for his club. Burkardt has already scored five goals in seven games for Mainz and, after several appearances for Germany’s youth teams, is now receiving his first call-up to the senior squad.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta highlights Kai Havertz’s significant boost in confidence

There were many questions when Arsenal spent £65 million on Kai Havertz following his underwhelming spell at Chelsea. However, after a slow start, 2024 has turned into a memorable year for Havertz, who finished the season with 21 goal contributions and already has five this season.

Arteta has played a key role in Havertz’s development, as he has utilized to his strengths and, more importantly, given him the confidence to prove his worth. Speaking about Havertz’s progress, the Spanish coach stated that the forward has now embraced the responsibility of being a key player for the Gunners.

“You can tell [his confidence has grown], he takes the ball and he runs with the ball. He’s on high press, he goes full gas, the way he holds the ball, the position he takes in the box. He’s an attacking midfielder, he plays as a nine, you don’t know where he is, that’s his football brain. His focus now is ‘I’m going to win the game, I’m going to do it’ and that’s a different thing," he said (via GOAL)

The Arsenal faithful will undoubtedly be hoping that Havertz’s injury isn’t serious, given his crucial role in the team. If he is sidelined for an extended period, Arteta can turn to Gabriel Jesus or Leandro Trossard, both of whom are capable of playing as a number nine in the upcoming matches.