🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

More doubts involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we are to fight at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”