Arsenal are concerned over the future fitness of Havertz, with his knee issue flaring up on his return from a lengthy lay-off, according to Daily Mail (via Fox Sport).
The Gunners star has not started for the club since August 17, but made his comeback as a second-half substitute in the FA Cup third round win over Portsmouth.
He also played eight minutes against Chelsea in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final.
He is said to have pushed himself to return but had sustained ligament damage against United, and his knee has now flared up again, with manager Mikel Arteta having to manage his minutes carefully.
Havertz was not introduced from the bench against AC Milan in the Champions League, to the surprise of some supporters, but he is yet to reach full fitness.
The club are fearful that he will not reach full fitness for some time, and that his minutes will have to be managed continually throughout the remainder of the season, and potentially beyond. He is expected to be given minutes throughout the next few weeks.
Also Read: Don’t Be In A Rush To Leave Arsenal –Ex-Ivory Coast Star Warns Gunners’ Youngsters
Arteta has previously spoken of Havertz’s talent, telling reporters: “If everything goes well, I think he’s going to be in the squad again in the next few days.
“He trains well, he’s increased his load, he’s coping with that really well and he will be ready when we can have him.”
He added on expectations for Havertz being high: “Yes, but I understand this is the level as well. And when a player has the chance to put our shirt on and compete for us, you know that the demands are excellence – and that’s it. Kai is aware of that.”
