Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can keep managing with player absences following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.
Prolonged Recovery for Havertz
The German forward has been sidelined since August due to knee surgery. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”
“Our experience helped us build a team that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” Arteta said.
Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture
This update presents a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option post-recovery.
Defensive Concerns Linger
Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.
Arteta feels the substantial investment on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such absences.
Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge
In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.
“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”
Arteta's Support for Suffering Star
Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”
He shared his eagerness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”
“His playing record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”
