The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with player absences following confirming that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.
The German forward has been sidelined for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and could not progress “the next phase.”
“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.
This development leaves a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.
Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the backline for the league leaders.
Arteta feels the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has resulted in a more robust situation to handle such unavailability.
When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, since the current term has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.
“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 highest level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”
Addressing the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back around the team and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”
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Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell
Kenneth Bell