Arsenal in no rush with Havertz injury recovery, per Metro Sport

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Kai Havertz picked up an injury during the latest international break, becoming the first Arsenal player to return from international duty carrying a fitness concern this window. With a trip to face Leeds United on the horizon, Arsenal are choosing caution over urgency when it comes to getting the forward back on the pitch.

There is currently no clear timeline for Havertz's return. Mikel Arteta has long preferred to keep injury details and recovery timelines private, so supporters should not expect a specific date from the manager in the coming days.

According to Metro Sport, the club's priority is to take a measured approach with Havertz rather than pushing him back into the side before he is ready.

Lessons from last season

The caution is rooted in recent history. Havertz suffered a string of injuries last season that disrupted his campaign and forced Arsenal to lean more heavily on Viktor Gyokeres, who did not always suit the system in the same way the German does when fit.

Having relied on Havertz as one of his key attacking players from the start of this season, Arteta will be eager to avoid a repeat of that pattern. Giving the forward the necessary time to recover properly, rather than rushing him back, is seen as the smarter long-term approach for a player with a history of fitness setbacks.

Gyokeres and Merino ready to step in

Arsenal are not short of options in Havertz's absence. Both Gyokeres and Mikel Merino returned from the international break in good form, and their performances could prove important if the forward is sidelined for an extended spell.

Gyokeres will have another chance to show he can adapt more effectively within Arteta's setup, while Merino offers a different but valuable alternative in attacking areas. Both will likely be needed to carry the load while Havertz works his way back to full fitness.

For now, Arsenal appear content to let Havertz take as much time as he needs, prioritising his long-term availability over any short-term gain from an early return.