Arteta Praises ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Acknowledges Havertz Injury Blow.
The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.
Extended Absence for Havertz
The Germany international has been out since August due to knee surgery. Hoped to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This update presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.
Fitness Doubts Remain
Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the table-toppers.
Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such unavailability.
Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit
In response if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.
“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Suffering Star
Addressing the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”
He shared his keenness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”
“His fitness history is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”
