Give me the latest on this: Kai Havertz Withdraws from Germany Squad.

Kai Havertz has withdrawn from the Germany national team squad for the upcoming international matches due to a knee problem. This decision means he will miss Germany’s Nations League games against Bosnia-Herzegovina and the Netherlands. Mainz striker Jonathan Burkardt has been called up to replace Havertz in the squad.

Despite playing the full 90 minutes and scoring in Arsenal’s recent Premier League match against Southampton, Havertz’s knee issue has prompted his withdrawal to ensure he receives the necessary rest and treatment during the international break. There hasn’t been any indication of the severity of the injury beyond it being a precautionary measure, giving him two weeks to recover before Arsenal’s next match.

Havertz Impressive Start For Arsenal

Kai Havertz has had an impressive start to the season with Arsenal, demonstrating significant improvement and adaptation to his role within the team. Here’s a look at his performance highlights:

Scoring and Contribution: Havertz has been pivotal in Arsenal’s lineup, scoring his fifth goal of the season in a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain, which Arsenal won 2-0. This goal was part of his broader contribution, where he not only scores but also creates chances, as highlighted by his involvement in Arsenal’s goals, showcasing his football intelligence and tactical awareness.
Dual Success: Against PSG, Havertz led in successful duels, winning both ground and aerial challenges. This physical dominance is a new dimension to his game, showing his ability to compete in the Premier League’s robust environment and contribute defensively.
Performance vs. Southampton: His performance against Southampton was particularly notable where he scored an equalizer, demonstrating his importance in crucial moments. This game further cemented his role as a reliable goal scorer for Arsenal, continuing a streak of scoring in home games that harks back to Robin van Persie’s era with the club.
Tactical Adaptation: Initially questioned for his role in the team, Havertz’s transition to playing higher up the pitch as a striker or in a hybrid midfield/attacking role has been a masterstroke. This tactical shift by Mikel Arteta has allowed Havertz to utilize his strengths better, capitalizing on his movement, finishing, and understanding of space.
Team Integration and Growth: His journey at Arsenal shows a significant adaptation to the culture and style of play under Arteta. From being a player finding his feet to becoming central to Arsenal’s strategies, Havertz’s development reflects both his personal growth and his integration into the team’s dynamics.
Statistical Highlights: Havertz’s shot quality has been remarkable, with a high expected goals (xG) per shot ratio, indicating not just the frequency but the quality of his goal-scoring opportunities. His involvement in 22 goals and assists in his last 21 games underscores his pivotal role in Arsenal’s attack.
Endurance and Commitment: His performance also includes notable moments like sprinting in the 109th minute of a match, showcasing his fitness and commitment on the pitch, which has earned him respect and admiration among fans and analysts alike.
Public and Team Perception: There’s a clear shift in how Havertz is perceived, from initial skepticism to widespread recognition of his contributions. This shift is evident in the praise from teammates, coaches, and fans, as well as in the media, where his performances are increasingly highlighted for their quality and impact.

Kai Havertz’s start at Arsenal has not only been about individual brilliance but also about fitting into a tactical system that maximizes his abilities, leading to a flourishing season where he’s proving to be one of the key players in Arsenal’s quest for silverware.