How Will Arsenal Cope Without Kai Havertz?

Arsenal’s Striker Crisis Deepens

Arsenal’s season has taken a devastating blow with the confirmation that Kai Havertz will miss the rest of the campaign due to a hamstring injury. With Gabriel Jesus already out and wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli struggling with fitness issues, Mikel Arteta faces an urgent dilemma.

With no new signings made during the January transfer window, Arsenal must now find creative solutions to keep their title hopes alive in both the Premier League and the Champions League. So, how can the Gunners survive the remainder of the season without a natural number nine?

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1️⃣ Leandro Trossard as a False Nine

With Arsenal’s forward line severely weakened, Leandro Trossard is the most experienced attacking option left. The Belgian has been used as a false nine in the past, and Arteta may have no choice but to deploy him in that role again.

Trossard’s movement and technical ability allow him to link up play effectively, creating space for midfielders and wide players to exploit. However, his goal return this season has been underwhelming—just five goals compared to 17 last term. If Arsenal are to maintain their attacking threat, Trossard must step up.

➡️ Can Trossard deliver in the most crucial stage of the season?

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2️⃣ Promoting Academy Talent

History has shown that injuries can create opportunities for young players to shine. Arsenal’s academy is full of promising talents, and Arteta could turn to them for depth.

• Nathan Butler-Oyedeji (22) – Made his senior debut this season and has been in and around the first-team squad.
• Khayon Edwards (20) – A prolific goal scorer at youth level, with experience in League One.
• Ismeal Kabia & Charles Sagoe Jr. – Talented wide forwards who could provide attacking support from the flanks.

➡️ Will Arsenal’s youngsters seize their chance and make an impact?

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3️⃣ Entering the Free Agent Market

If Arteta doesn’t trust his current options, Arsenal could explore free agency for emergency reinforcements. While the market lacks elite options, a short-term deal could provide cover.

Potential signings include:

• Diego Costa (35) – A former Chelsea striker with Premier League experience but past his prime.
• Lucas Perez (35) – A former Arsenal player who could provide a short-term solution.
• Carlos Vela (34) – Ex-Arsenal and LAFC forward who still has goal-scoring instincts.

While none of these names are ideal, desperate times call for desperate measures.

➡️ Should Arsenal bring in an experienced free agent or stick with what they have?

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Final Thoughts: Can Arsenal Overcome This Crisis?

With the Premier League and Champions League still in their sights, Arsenal must quickly find a way to cope with their injury crisis. Whether it’s Trossard stepping up, academy players making an impact, or an unexpected signing, Arteta has big decisions to make.

What do you think Arsenal should do next? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇