Havertz the Donkey Devotee: Gunners Star Braying Back to Germany Duty with Arsenal Loyalty Intact

Picture this: you're chatting with Kai Havertz over a post-match pint, and instead of dissecting his latest goal, he starts raving about donkeys. Yeah, you heard that right. The Arsenal forward's got a soft spot for these long-eared legends that's as deep as his midfield runs.

It all kicked off when he was a nipper, apparently. No one knows exactly why donkeys stole his heart, but Havertz reckons they're just "wonderful" beasts. He's got three dogs at home and family donkeys back in Germany, and animal welfare? That's his off-pitch crusade. Teammates rib him about it – earning him the cheeky nickname 'The Donkey' – but he wears it like a badge of honour.

Back in the Black and White, Injury Blues Banished

After a rough patch with injuries sidelining him since late 2024, Havertz is finally trotting back into the Germany setup. It's his first call-up since November, just in time to gear up for the 2026 World Cup. The 26-year-old admits it was a proper slog, but he's buzzing to be reunited with the lads, belting out the national anthem and all.

He's stayed in touch with boss Julian Nagelsmann, no awkward silences there. Now fully fit, Havertz is ready to lead by example rather than barking orders in the dressing room. Versatile as ever – he can slot in anywhere up top – he's itching to mentor the new faces and help forge that winning vibe ahead of the big tournament.

"Team spirit is everything," he says, and with fresh blood in the squad, this week's camp is all about bonding. No grand speeches from the quiet German, just actions on the pitch. Sounds like a plan that's got Die Mannschaft pointed in the right direction.

Arsenal's Versatile Ace Shuts Down Exit Talk

Amid the international break circus, where transfer tittle-tattle flies thicker than confetti, Havertz slammed the door on any Emirates escape rumours. Since ditching Chelsea for north London, he's been Mikel Arteta's Swiss Army knife, pivotal in the Gunners' title tilt. "I feel completely at home at Arsenal," he declares. Future? Firmly in red and white.

It's no wonder – he's thriving in Arteta's system, popping up with goals and graft. While the World Cup looms large, his club focus remains laser-sharp. Donkeys aside, this lad's got his priorities sorted: pitch, pups, and those fabulous donkeys.

So next time you see Havertz nutmegging defenders or stroking in a beauty, spare a thought for his four-legged faves. It's this quirky passion that makes him more than just a baller – he's the donkey whisperer of the Premier League. Can't wait to see him bray his way through the World Cup qualifiers.

(Originally reported by AFP via Goal.com)