🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined for months due to knee surgery. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when advancing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains in contention post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on new players during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”