🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks after confirming that forward Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been out for months following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in central defence for the table-toppers.

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

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was helping their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us 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 top. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”