Arsenal forward Kai Havertz reveals new hunger after severe injury woes
Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has declared himself fully fit and motivated for the remainder of the season ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash against former club Bayer Leverkusen, following a challenging 12 months plagued by severe injuries.
The Germany international underwent hamstring surgery in February last year, before requiring a separate knee operation following the opening game of the current campaign.
After briefly returning in January, the 26-year-old suffered a subsequent hamstring issue that immediately halted his comeback momentum.
However, the attacker successfully completed an hour during Saturday’s fixture against Mansfield and is now eager to help the Gunners challenge on all fronts.
A mentally challenging rehabilitation
Reflecting on his prolonged absence, the former Leverkusen star admitted that enduring consecutive surgeries was the most painful period of his professional career.
“For me it was just tough, because I never felt that pain before in my life,” Havertz said.
The Arsenal playmaker credited his family for providing crucial support during his recovery process at home.
“Having two surgeries after another is not easy, but I think I’m professional enough to know that this is also part of football sometimes,” he added.
Targeting Champions League success
Mikel Arteta’s side have appeared significantly more fluid in attack when the versatile forward is available for selection.
They will now rely on that offensive spark as they seek a place in the Champions League quarter-finals at the expense of his former employers.
The prolonged spell on the sidelines has only intensified the player’s desire to secure silverware this season.
“During these times, I felt how much I missed being on the pitch, how much I missed being with the boys, that feeling that you have after a game,” he explained.
“That’s why it was mentally so hard for me, because I couldn’t be there, and it just gave me a new hunger.”
When questioned about trusting his body for the crucial final months of the campaign, his response was emphatic.
“I’m confident, I’m feeling good, I’m feeling better,” he stated.
“Obviously things can always happen, but I’m feeling 100 per cent ready to play games and I can’t wait to help the team in the next couple of months.”
