Midfielder and striker Havertz is a surprise absentee from the Gunners' squad against Brentford, joining fellow striker Bukaya Saka on the sidelines.
Already without key man Bukayo Saka, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta was dealt another blow in attack for the New Year's Day Premier League match against Brentford due to the surprise absence of striker Kai Havertz.
In the build-up to the match, there was no indication that Havertz would be unavailable to face the Bees, with the first sign of his unavailability coming when the Gunners announced their matchday squad for the match less than an hour before kick-off.
The club has not addressed the issue, although TNT Sports, which is broadcasting Wednesday's match in Britain, has reported that the German is ill. That suggests he should return to action soon, with Arsenal next in action against Brighton on Saturday (January 4).
Who is Ethan Nwaneri, starting for Arsenal against Brentford?
With Saka and Havertz both unavailable, the door is open for youngster Ethan Nwaneri to make his first Premier League start for the Gunners.
The 17-year-old, born in March 2007, has made 12 league appearances for the club, all as a substitute. Ironically, Nwaneri made his Premier League debut against Brentford in September 2022 at the age of 15 and 181 days, making him both Arsenal and England's youngest ever player.
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