🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with fitness issues following revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been absent since the summer due to knee surgery. Hoped to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has seen more issues in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”