🔗 Share this article

Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been absent since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is far more dependable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in central defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has placed the club in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the top. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the required step and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I look forward to see him return involved playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”