Arteta Hails ‘More Reliable’ Team and Confirms Havertz Injury Blow.
Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
The German forward has been sidelined since August following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option post-recovery.
Defensive Concerns Linger
More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in central defence for the league leaders.
Arteta believes the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.
Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit
When asked if more options was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.
“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”
Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz
Commenting on the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”
He shared his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, for me, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”
“His availability record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”
