Arsenal’s North London Derby preparations have been thrown into total disarray after Kai Havertz suffered a fresh setback that rules him out until the end of the year.
Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann dropped the bombshell after their win over Slovakia, ending any hope Arsenal had of a derby-day boost.
“Kai had a minor relapse on his injury, but overall, he’s doing well,” Nagelsmann said, before confirming the worst. “He is expected to return towards the end of the year.”
The news is a huge blow for Mikel Arteta, who was counting on Havertz to bolster his attacking options. The 26-year-old had been pushing to make a dramatic return after a horror run of injuries, including a serious hamstring issue last season and a knee injury picked up moments after coming on against Manchester United on opening weekend.
To make matters worse, his direct rival for the No.9 spot, summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, is also out with a muscular problem. Wingers Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli are still fighting for full fitness as Arsenal scramble for firepower.
But the biggest crisis may be at the back. Defensive rock Gabriel Magalhaes could miss up to two months after limping off during Brazil duty, a nightmare scenario for a player who’s been one of the Premier League’s standout performers this year.
With the derby looming and players dropping like flies, Arsenal’s title hopes are suddenly looking shakier than ever.
