🔗 Share this article

The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been absent for months following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to deal with such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, since the current term has seen more issues in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”