Arteta Praises a More Dependable Squad and Reveals Havertz Setback.
The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.
Extended Absence for Havertz
The Germany international has been out since the summer following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”
“Our experience helped us build a team that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.
Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture
This update presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is in contention post-recovery.
Fitness Doubts Persist
More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the league leaders.
Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.
Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge
When asked if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he continued.
“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz
Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his keenness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”
