Mikel Arteta Provides Update on Kai Havertz's Fitness

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provides an update on Kai Havertz's fitness ahead of the crucial match against Newcastle United. Find out if he'll be available for selection.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media ahead of the team's crucial match against Newcastle United.

A win for either side would secure a Champions League spot, adding extra intensity to the contest. Arsenal will welcome back Kai Havertz and Declan Rice, who have resumed training, potentially boosting their lineup.

Kai Havertz's Availability

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed that Kai Havertz is in contention to return for the team's match against Newcastle United.

“We're going to decide that tomorrow. He's done certain parts of the sessions in the last two days,” Arteta said, indicating that the final decision on Havertz's availability will be made soon.

“It's with the medical staff and how Kai feels. It's a credit to him and the medical staff and they've been pushing. He looks in great shape and you see the transformation on him which is really impressive.” 

Clinical Finishing Key

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the importance of his team being clinical in front of goal, particularly in their final home game of the season against Newcastle United.

“It's our chance as well to finish in second place. As well in a way to say thank you to our supporters and making the effort to travel everywhere. 

“We're going to need a big one, be very clinical. How thin the margins are with (Newcastle) and how clinical we have to be in front of them to score the goals.”

No Regrets from Arteta

When asked about potential regrets this season, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the team's effort.

“I will give you my word that we have tried our very best,” Arteta said, reflecting on the team's endeavors despite falling short in the title race and Champions League.

Mikel provides the latest updates on Havertz, Rice, Timber and more 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 16, 2025

“I will give you my word that we have tried our very best. 

“I love incredible things that this team has done, again, in the circumstances that we have played in.” 

Thomas Partey's Future Uncertain

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remained tight-lipped when asked about Thomas Partey's contract and potential departure from the club after their final home game of the season.

“I wouldn't like to talk specifically about anybody. There are a few cases, we will try to show our gratitude for the time we have had together and hopefully our supporters can do too.”

Squad Alignment a Priority

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasized that aligning his squad is a key priority heading into a potentially busy summer transfer window.

Together in N5 for the final time this season 🔜 pic.twitter.com/Ej1xd6rZde

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 16, 2025

“Yes, on what we have to do, yes. And what we can do, I don't know.

“I think sometimes from the plan that we had and actually what we were able to execute, we've never been able to replicate it exactly. This is football, it happens, I think, to every football club. That's why we plan certain ways and, if we cannot do it, we'll do something else.

“I think the aim is clear and then you have to just do it slowly, thing by thing and start to achieve it. A big part of that as well is keeping and making sure that the players that are here are happy, they feel valued, and they are willing to continue with us. That's very, very important.”