Kai Havertz aims for a successful World Cup with Germany after overcoming injury setbacks, with Arsenal’s busy schedule helping him regain peak fitness.

Kai Havertz says he is closing in on his best form again after a difficult year with injuries, as he targets a strong campaign with the Germany national football team at the upcoming World Cup.

The forward, who missed international duty for more than a year, has returned to the national setup for friendlies against the Switzerland national football team and the Ghana national football team. The matches are part of Germany’s preparation for the summer tournament.

Havertz admitted the past 12 months have been challenging, revealing he suffered his first injury in February last year and was sidelined for over three months before encountering another setback with a knee problem.

After spending several months out, the 26-year-old returned to action for Arsenal in January, having been absent since August. He now believes he is physically ready to handle a demanding run of fixtures.

The German international explained that he feels fully fit again, although he acknowledged he needs more starts to reach peak sharpness. He added that he is capable of playing full matches and sustaining performance levels.

Arsenal’s involvement in the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League comes at the ideal time for Havertz, providing opportunities to build confidence ahead of the World Cup.

Germany head into the tournament determined to restore their global standing after early exits in 2018 and 2022. The competition, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, begins in June.

Drawn in Group E alongside Ecuador national football team, Curaçao national football team, and Ivory Coast national football team, Germany will open their campaign in Houston against Curaçao before facing Ivory Coast in Toronto and Ecuador in New York, with Havertz hoping to lead the charge for success.