Arteta Hails ‘More Reliable’ Team and Acknowledges Havertz Setback.
Arsenal's manager remains confident that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for German Star
The Germany international has been sidelined since August due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”
“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.
Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash
This news leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.
Fitness Doubts Remain
More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.
The manager is convinced the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a more robust situation to deal with such unavailability.
Greater Options Key to Title Challenge
In response if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, since the current term has been worse in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.
“We learned from the past that we have to use players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star
Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”
He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”
