Why did Kai Havertz missed the clash against Brentford? Mikel Arteta clears the air

Arsenal are off to a great start in 2025 with a win over Brentford at G Tech Community Stadium on Wednesday. Despite conceding an early goal, Arsenal equalized in the first half, striking twice to decimate Brentford in front of their fans to move closer to Liverpool on the points table. Amidst the win, the fans were curious to know about the absence of Kai Havertz from the playing XI and the matchday squad. With the transfer window open, the rumors were flying around. However, Mikel Arteta has addressed the reason behind Havertz’s absence for the Premier League fixture and also has mentioned his availability. 

Talking about Havertz’s absence from the game against Brentford, Mikel Arteta mentioned that the player was ill and did not have match fitness. He also commented that the other players are also carrying minor injuries that could potentially derail their campaign. Mikel Arteta also said he took precautions considering they have nine games to play in January. He said: 

"Kai wasn't feeling good, a few players were like this. That's normal. Declan [Rice] as well he had to come off the other day, the second time he's had a niggle. We have nine games this month and we really have to be careful because of the size of the squad that we have."

When asked about Kai Havertz’s presence for the next game, Mikel Arteta sounded confident and mentioned that the player is expected to be back in the matchday squad. The German international has featured in all of Arsenal’s games in the ongoing season barring once. His absence did not prove costly for the Gunners yesterday but the Spaniard would want to have the player back in the squad. Arteta said: 

I think so yes, I think he will recover very quickly

In the ongoing season, Kai Havertz has been instrumental up top with his monumental presence, winning the duels with the defenders. He has 12 goals and three assists in 25 appearances across all competitions. With Bukayo Saka ruled out for the next two months and the title chase as well as the Champions League entering the crucial phase, Kai Havertz will be necessary for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Arsenal will play Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium and will look to move closer to Liverpool before they face Manchester United.