Mikel Arteta Hails ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Confirms Havertz Setback.
The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.
Extended Absence for Havertz
The Germany international has been sidelined for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”
“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This news presents a dilemma for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available post-recovery.
Fitness Doubts Persist
Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.
Arteta believes the £250m spend on reinforcements in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.
Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit
When asked if more options was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.
“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz
Addressing the setback noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”
“His fitness history is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”
