🔗 Share this article

Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with player absences after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”