Arteta Hails ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Acknowledges Kai Havertz Setback.

Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can keep managing with player absences following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined for months due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth during the summer has resulted in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if more options was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”