🔗 Share this article

Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can keep managing with fitness issues after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been sidelined for months after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to return sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development presents a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back with the squad and playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”