Mikel Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Acknowledges Kai Havertz Setback.
Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
The Germany international has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” Arteta said.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This development 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 last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.
Defensive Concerns Linger
Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the league leaders.
The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a far better place to handle such absences.
Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit
Questioned if increased squad depth was helping their title quest, his response was positive. “Absolutely, since the current term has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.
“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”
Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star
Commenting on the complication previously mentioned 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’s looking like we have unlocked that.”
He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.”
“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”
