Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can continue to cope with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.
Extended Absence for German Star
The German forward has been sidelined since August following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available earlier in December, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the required stage.”
“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.
Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture
This development creates a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out.
Fitness Doubts Remain
Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the table-toppers.
Arteta believes the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has placed the club in a far better place to handle such setbacks.
Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge
In response if increased squad depth was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Absolutely, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.
“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”
Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz
Speaking about the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”
He shared his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”
“His availability record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to get him back around the team playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”
