Kai Havertz Sent Home in Car Before Arsenal’s 3-1 Win Over Brentford

Mikel Arteta disclosed that Kai Havertz was sent back to London by car just before Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Brentford due to a virus affecting the squad. Arsenal began 2025 strongly, overturning a 1-0 deficit to secure three points at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Havertz’s absence surprised many, especially after the German forward scored the decisive goal in Arsenal’s final 2024 match against Ipswich. However, the illness that sidelined him also impacted other players, with Martin Ødegaard reportedly unwell before the match. Arteta explained the drastic steps taken to prevent the virus from spreading among the team.

Speaking after the game, Arteta highlighted the late decision to exclude Havertz and why he was sent home:

“It affected players both on and off the pitch. It’s nothing serious, but it wasn’t ideal. Kai’s symptoms were clear—he wasn’t feeling well at all. So, we kept him away, put him in a car, and sent him back to London.

“These things happen, especially during this time of year, with infections and viruses. That’s why I delay finalizing the lineup as late as possible—sometimes you wake up to unexpected surprises like this.”

While Arsenal coped well without Havertz, they’ll be hoping for his return ahead of Saturday’s challenging fixture against B

righton.