Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
Havertz has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation 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,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This update presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.
Fitness Doubts Linger
More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.
The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.
Greater Options Key to Title Challenge
Questioned if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.
“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”
Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz
Speaking about the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”
Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”
“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”
