Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for German Star
The Germany international has been out since August following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return sooner, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the required stage.”
“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This news presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention after 11 months out.
Fitness Doubts Persist
Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.
Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such absences.
Greater Options Key to Title Challenge
When asked if increased squad depth was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.
“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”
Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star
Addressing the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer while sidelined.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back involved on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”
