Mikel Arteta Praises ‘More Reliable’ Team and Confirms Kai Havertz Setback.

The Gunners' boss feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent since August following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I look forward to see him return around the team playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”