Arteta Applauds a More Dependable Team and Acknowledges Havertz Injury Blow.
Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can keep managing with player absences after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for German Star
The German forward has been out since August following knee surgery. Originally slated to return sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and could not progress “the required stage.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is far more dependable and has more options,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This news leaves a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.
Fitness Doubts Linger
More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in central defence for the league leaders.
The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.
Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit
In response if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.
“History has shown us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star
Addressing the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”
Arteta expressed his keenness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”
“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”
