Kai Havertz returns to Arsenal training ground for the first time after four months

Havertz was injured at the start of the campaign when Arsenal faced Manchester United. Following the match, the club confirmed that the German had sustained a knee injury and needed minor surgery, ruling him out for several months.

During his recovery, reports suggested Havertz had suffered a small setback, raising concerns that his return could be delayed further. However, he was recently spotted back on the training pitch ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace.

“He’s progressing really well and quite fast in the last few weeks. We are really positive that if everything continues like this in the next training sessions, he’s going to be with us,” Mikel Arteta said. As a result, Havertz could return soon, possibly missing the Palace match but targeting the game against Brighton on 27 December.

Havertz’s return will give Arteta more options in attack. Arsenal could soon have three forwards available: Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. While the returns of Jesus and Havertz are encouraging, there were concerns in defence, as Piero Hincapié was not seen in recent training photos.

Arsenal are still dealing with several injuries, including Gabriel Magalhães, Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White and Max Dowman. However, there is optimism that some players could return in late December or early January.

Premier League clubs are entering the busiest period of the season, with teams set to play three matches per week in January. Arsenal face Crystal Palace next, followed by Brighton (27 December), Aston Villa (31 December), Bournemouth (4 January) and Liverpool (9 January).