Mikel Arteta Praises a More Dependable Team and Acknowledges Havertz Injury Blow.
Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with player absences following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.
Extended Absence for German Star
The German forward has been sidelined since August following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the required stage.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has more options,” stated the manager.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This update leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention post-recovery.
Fitness Doubts Remain
More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.
Arteta believes the significant outlay on new players during the summer has resulted in a far better place to handle such absences.
Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit
When asked if increased squad depth was helping their title quest, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.
“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”
Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star
Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”
The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”
“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”
