Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Kai Havertz injury 'not serious'

The Arsenal forward was forced off before half-time during the weekend victory after appearing to hurt his thigh. The injury initially caused concern ahead of the club's crucial run of matches in both the Premier League and Champions League.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta played down fears after the match and suggested the issue was not serious.

"I don't know how serious it is," Arteta said. "It didn't look too big. The action, the way he describes it, is not too sharp. But we have to wait and see."

The latest assessment has now provided Arsenal with a major boost. Havertz is expected to miss the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, but the injury is not believed to be as serious as first feared.

The German international is still expected to play again this season as Arsenal continue their push for a first Premier League title since 2004.

The timing could also prove important for Havertz on the international stage, with the forward hoping to secure his place in Germany's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This campaign has been a frustrating one for the former Chelsea player. A knee injury suffered on the opening day of the season kept him out for much of the first half of the campaign.

Since returning in January, Havertz has contributed three goal involvements in the Premier League and has gradually regained his place in Arteta's plans.

Arsenal currently sit top of the Premier League table, holding a three-point advantage over Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, although City still have a game in hand.