🔗 Share this article

Arsenal's manager feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined since the summer following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a dilemma for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

More doubts involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has placed the club in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was aiding their title quest, the manager agreed. “Indeed, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Commenting on the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”