Mikel Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Team and Acknowledges Havertz Injury Blow.
The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues following confirming that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
The German forward has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”
“Our experience helped us build a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This news presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available following a lengthy absence.
Defensive Concerns Persist
More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.
Arteta believes the substantial investment on squad depth ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.
Greater Options Key to Title Challenge
When asked if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.
“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at this level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”
Arteta's Support for Suffering Star
Addressing the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, for me, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”
“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”
