🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been absent since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a far better place to navigate such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, for me, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back around the team and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”