🔗 Share this article

Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with player absences after revealing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to be available sooner, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when increasing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “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 different positions, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the required step and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”