Arsenal Attacked By The Erected And Stomachache Virus, Kai Havertz Becomes A Victim

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz. (X/@Arsenal)

JAKARTA - Arsenal lost a number of pillar players when they beat Brentford 3-1 in the English Premier League match. Apparently, Arsenal's team was attacked by a virus that resulted in players getting sore throat or stomach pain as experienced by Kai Havertz so that he missed the match against Brentford which was held at the GTech Community Stadium, London, Thursday, January 2, 2025 in the morning WIB.

Havertz was a puzzle because manager Mikel Arteta suddenly crossed him out ahead of the match against Brentford. This was a surprise for Arsenal in the New Year because Havertz was the pillar of the Gunners' front line.

In the last match on Boxing Day, the German national team striker scored the only goal that led Arsenal to a 1-0 win over Ipswich Town. However, Arteta confirmed that Havertz had to be absent due to stomach problems.

This is for the first time that Havertz has not been able to appear due to illness or injury since being recruited by Arsenal from Chelsea in 2023.

"Ka Kai is clear. He feels unwell because there is a stomach problem. As soon as his stomach hurts, he immediately gets into the car and goes home," Arteta said as quoted by Metro.

Arteta also revealed that the team was infected with the virus. According to him, there are several players who have throat inflammation. While others have stomach pain like Havertz experienced.

"There is a virus, both on and off the field. It always happens. There is a virus that causes inflammation in the throat," he said.

"This is what makes me forced to postpone the preparation of the line-up. The reason is that you are sometimes faced with surprises when you wake up early," said Arteta again.

Arteta hopes that players affected by the virus will recover and return to play when Arsenal face Brighton and Hove Albion, Sunday, January 5, 2025 in the morning WIB.

"I hope they are fit in Saturday's match against Brighton. The pain is not hard, but their condition is still not good to play in this match [against Brentford]," said Arteta.

"Havertz is also expected to recover. He is recovering quickly. Those who are sick do not need to be isolated either," he said.

Arsenal won an important victory over Brentford who took them to second place. Arsenal displaced Nottingham Forest and overshadowed Liverpool at the top of the standings.