🔗 Share this article

Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with player absences following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined since August due to knee surgery. Initially expected to be available sooner, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”