Mikel Arteta Applauds a More Dependable Squad and Acknowledges Kai Havertz Injury Blow.
Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for German Star
The Germany international has been out for months following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”
“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This development creates a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains in contention post-recovery.
Defensive Concerns Linger
Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the table-toppers.
Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.
Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit
When asked if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.
“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz
Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”
Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.”
“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”
