Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Kai Havertz could make an unexpected return from injury earlier than anticipated, providing a significant boost to Arsenal ahead of their crucial upcoming matches against Bournemouth and Paris Saint-Germain. The German midfielder has been sidelined since January due to a hamstring injury, with initial fears that he might miss the remainder of the season. However, Havertz’s recovery has progressed faster than expected, raising hopes that he could play a role in Arsenal’s decisive run-in.
Arteta revealed that if Havertz’s recovery continues as planned, he could feature in a few more games this season. His return would come at a crucial time for Arsenal, who are chasing both domestic and European glory. The Gunners are set to face Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, and a win would put them on the brink of securing Champions League football for next season. Arsenal are also looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit against PSG in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, making Havertz’s potential return even more timely. Arteta emphasized that the team must remain focused on the immediate task at hand, starting with the Bournemouth match, rather than getting distracted by the European final that lies ahead.
In addition to Havertz’s potential return, Arteta confirmed that Italian midfielder Jorginho could soon be back in contention after a period of absence due to injury. This further bolsters Arsenal’s squad depth as they approach the final stretch of the season, with both the Premier League and the Champions League still in play.
Arteta stressed the importance of the upcoming Premier League clash with Bournemouth, acknowledging that a victory would significantly strengthen their chances of securing a spot in next season’s Champions League. Arsenal currently trail Manchester City in the Premier League standings, and with Chelsea and Nottingham Forest facing difficult matches this weekend, a win against Bournemouth could all but guarantee their place in Europe’s elite competition for next season.
While Arsenal’s home form has been strong throughout the season, with just one league defeat at the Emirates, recent draws have hindered their momentum. Arteta pointed out that the team needs to maintain their focus on the immediate challenges, particularly the game against Bournemouth, which he described as the most important task at hand. He emphasized the need to perform at their best and earn the right to win, with the focus firmly on increasing the probability of success in the upcoming match.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola acknowledged the challenge his team faces when they travel to the Emirates, where Arsenal have been nearly unbeatable this season. Despite their recent unbeaten run of four games, Iraola admitted that overcoming Arsenal would be a monumental task. “Arsenal is going to be very, very, very difficult,” Iraola said, highlighting the Gunners’ formidable home record. “They’ve lost only one game this season at home,” he continued, noting that to beat them, his team would have to be exceptional. Iraola also praised Arsenal’s defense, calling them the best in the league, and added that it would take something special to secure a victory against them.
With both teams aware of the stakes, the match at the Emirates promises to be an intense encounter. For Arsenal, the immediate goal is to maintain their push for a top-four finish in the Premier League while also preparing for the return leg against PSG. The team will be hoping that their recent injury boosts, particularly the possible return of Havertz, can provide the added firepower needed to secure the important victories in these decisive matches.
