Kai Havertz To Lead Germany At The World Cup After Injury-marred Season

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Kai Havertz is targeting a leading role for Germany at the 2026 World Cup, after a difficult spell with injuries. The Arsenal forward has rejoined the national squad following a long absence and wants strong club performances to carry into the tournament in North America.

Germany start their World Cup campaign on June 14 against debutants Curacao in Group E. Ivory Coast and Ecuador complete the section, which appears competitive. Germany are four-time winners but exited at the group stage in both 2018 and 2022, increasing pressure for a stronger showing.

At club level, Havertz has been restricted to 14 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season. A knee injury on the opening day sidelined Havertz for around six months, before a January return. Since then, Havertz has scored three goals, none in the Premier League, and supplied two assists.

Arsenal lost the EFL Cup final against Manchester City last weekend, yet major targets remain. The club are still competing for the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup, creating a crowded schedule that Havertz welcomes as preparation. The 26-year-old views this run as vital for sharpness before the international tournament. "We [Arsenal] have many matches in three competitions," he said. "I missed the first six months of the season, and I will give it all for the club, and to be able to go with a lot of confidence to the World Cup. I want to be successful at this World Cup and lead the way."

Havertz returns to the Germany squad for the first time in more than a year. Injury ruled Havertz out of all three international breaks earlier this season, after an initial setback in February last year. That issue caused three and a half months out, followed by the knee problem. Speaking before a friendly against hosts Switzerland, Havertz described the physical and mental strain. "I had a tough time. It was not easy for me," Havertz told a press conference ahead of Germany's friendly against hosts Switzerland. "I had my first injury in February last year, three and a half months out, then come back, and then a setback with the knee injury. I now feel completely fit. I need the one or other game from the start to reach 100%, but I feel fit to start lasting over 90 minutes."

Germany’s Group E schedule at the World Cup is already fixed, giving Havertz and teammates clear targets.

Havertz now feels ready to handle full matches for club and country and wants consistent starts for Arsenal. Strong form could secure a central role for Germany after recent tournament disappointments. With a demanding fixture list and clear international goals, Havertz sees the coming months as crucial for regaining peak level.