Arsenal forward Kai Havertz sustained a painful head injury during the Gunners’ Champions League match against Inter Milan, leaving him visibly bloodied after a late collision.
Havertz was included in Arsenal’s starting lineup for their trip to the San Siro, where they faced a challenging evening that saw them fall to their first Champions League defeat of the season.
The game took a dramatic turn when Mikel Merino was controversially penalized for handball, allowing Inter’s Hakan Calhanoglu to score from the penalty spot.
Matters worsened for Mikel Arteta’s side when Havertz was forced off with an injury in stoppage time.
The German forward collided heavily with Inter defender Yann Bisseck in a clash of heads, prompting immediate medical attention.
Havertz suffered the brunt of the impact, as blood began to stream down his face. Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer urgently signaled for Arsenal’s medical team.
After several minutes of treatment, Kai Havertz walked off the pitch, his head wrapped and his shirt stained with blood.
Arsenal physiotherapist Simon Murphy was also marked with a bloodstain on his coat from treating the injured player.
Offering an update, Arteta said: “Kai Havertz had a big cut and hopefully he will be OK for the weekend.”
Arsenal will be concerned following Kai Havertz’s withdrawal, as the 25-year-old had made an impressive start to the season, netting seven goals in 15 appearances across all competitions.
The midfielder would have been eager to build on that tally this weekend, with Arsenal set to face his former club, Chelsea, at Stamford Bridge.
While there were initial concerns about Havertz’s fitness, there was a slight positive for Arsenal during their clash with Inter Milan.
Captain Martin Odegaard came on for Havertz in the latter stages of the match, marking his first appearance since August.
The Norwegian had been recovering from an ankle injury but was named on the bench against Inter, signalling his return to full fitness.
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