🔗 Share this article

Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can keep managing with fitness issues after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been sidelined for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on squad depth during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Commenting on the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”