Mikel Arteta Praises a More Dependable Squad and Reveals Havertz Setback.
Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with player absences following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
The German forward has been out since August following knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.
Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture
This development leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option post-recovery.
Defensive Concerns Linger
Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the league leaders.
Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.
Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit
When asked if more options was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.
“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz
Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”
Arteta expressed his eagerness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”
“His availability record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”
