Arsenal's attacking options have taken a major hit after Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring injury during their warm-weather training camp in Dubai. The German international is now set to miss the rest of the season, leaving the Gunners without a recognized centre-forward as they push for the Premier League title and Champions League success.

A club statement confirmed the injury and revealed that specialist assessments determined surgery is necessary. "Kai will undergo surgery in the coming days, after which he will begin his recovery and rehabilitation program. His return is expected to extend into pre-season preparations for the next campaign," the statement read.

With 14 Premier League games remaining and a title race against Liverpool intensifying, Arsenal now face a tough challenge without a natural striker. Gabriel Jesus is already sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are both recovering from hamstring problems.

Havertz sustained the injury during training in Dubai and returned to London with the squad on Tuesday night. His absence leaves Mikel Arteta with limited attacking options, especially after the club failed to secure a forward in the January transfer window. A late attempt to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa fell through, adding to Arsenal’s attacking woes.

Saka, who has been out since December 21, was part of the training squad in Dubai and could make a return in March. However, Arteta now faces a critical decision on how to structure his frontline for the crucial run-in. With Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling likely to step up, Sterling in particular may be given an extended run in the starting lineup.

Havertz’s absence is a significant blow. His ability to link up with Martin Ødegaard and operate as a focal point in attack has been vital for Arsenal. Though he has been criticized for missing chances, his positioning and movement have been key to the team's attacking play.

The decision not to sign a striker in January could prove costly. If Arsenal miss out on the title by a narrow margin, questions will be asked about their transfer strategy. However, if Liverpool continue winning, the issue of a missing centre-forward may become irrelevant.

For now, Arteta must find a way to keep Arsenal competitive despite the mounting injury setbacks.