🔗 Share this article

Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a far better place to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return around the team playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”