Mikel Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Reveals Havertz Setback.
The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that forward Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.
Extended Absence for Havertz
The Germany international has been sidelined since August due to knee surgery. Originally slated to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the required stage.”
“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.
Fitness Doubts Linger
More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in central defence for the table-toppers.
Arteta feels the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such unavailability.
Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge
In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.
“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star
Addressing the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”
He shared his keenness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”
