🔗 Share this article

Mikel Arteta remains confident that his team can persist in handling with player absences after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been absent since August after undergoing knee surgery. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has placed the club in a far better place to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”