Kai Havertz has been sidelined since the start of the season, and the German attacker is eager to regain full fitness as soon as possible. His absence has been a notable one for Arsenal, even though the squad has continued to evolve in his time away. Both player and club remain focused on ensuring that his recovery is managed carefully and effectively.Mikel Arteta is patiently waiting for Havertz’s return, despite having several attacking options currently available. Viktor Gyokeres joined the Gunners this season, while Gabriel Jesus has also returned from a long-term injury, providing the manager with depth in forward areas. Even so, Havertz remains a player Arteta values highly, and his eventual comeback is expected to add a different dimension to the team’s attacking setup.Importance of Havertz to Arteta’s plansHavertz is regarded as one of the players Arteta trusts and appreciates most within the squad. His versatility, intelligence, and ability to operate across multiple attacking roles make him a valuable option. Arsenal are keen to have him available again, as his presence would increase competition and flexibility during the second half of the campaign.The attacker himself is equally motivated to return. Beyond his club ambitions, he is aware that his international future is also a factor. A place in Germany’s World Cup squad is at stake, and that provides additional incentive for him to complete his rehabilitation successfully and return to match sharpness as soon as possible.Kai Havertz (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)Recovery progress and potential return dateAlthough Arsenal have provided very few public updates on his condition, the recovery process is believed to be progressing positively. The club have largely allowed Havertz to focus on rehabilitation without external pressure, prioritising his long-term fitness over short-term gains.According to Standard Sports, there is growing optimism that the attacker could be back sooner rather than later. The report suggests that he is on schedule to return towards the end of this month or at the start of 2026, assuming there are no setbacks.Arsenal are expected to remain cautious and avoid rushing him back into action. However, having Havertz available again for the latter stages of the season would be a significant boost. His return could provide fresh energy, tactical variety, and added quality as the Gunners look to maintain momentum and compete strongly across their remaining objectives.______________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, please contact us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsHow close is Kai Havertz to a return to full fitness?15 December 2025, 16:00Wayne Rooney thinks Unai Emery is better than Mikel Arteta15 December 2025, 15:00What does Arsene Wenger think about Arsenal’s title chances now15 December 2025, 14:00The post How close is Kai Havertz to a return to full fitness? appeared first on Just Arsenal News.