Why isn’t Kai Havertz playing for Arsenal against Brentford in the Premier League today?

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 game against Brentford by the surprise absence of forward Kai Havertz.

In the run-up to the game, there had been no indication Havertz wouldn’t be ready to face The Bees, with the first sign of his unavailability coming when The Gunners named their matchday squad for the game less than an hour before kickoff.

The club haven’t addressed the issue, although TNT Sports, who are broadcasting Wednesday’s game in the United Kingdom, have reported the German is suffering with illness. That suggests he should return to action before too much longer, with Arsenal next in action away to Brighton on Saturday (January 4).

Who is Ethan Nwaneri, starting for Arsenal against Brentford?

With Saka and Havertz both unavailable, the door has opened for youngster Ethan Nwaneri to make his first Premier League start for The Gunners.

Born in March 2007, the 17-year-old 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’s and the English top division’s youngest ever player.

Much like Saka, Nwaneri is a left-footed attacking midfielder who plays off the right, and is known for his quick feet, close control and ability to twist and turn away from defenders to get in shots on goal.

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