🔗 Share this article Mikel Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Team and Reveals Havertz Setback. The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can continue to cope with player absences after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks. Prolonged Recovery for Havertz Havertz has been out since the summer due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.” “We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” Arteta said. Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash This news creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option post-recovery. Defensive Concerns Persist Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners. The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to handle such unavailability. Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit In response if more options was aiding their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he added. “Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.” Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star Addressing the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.” He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.” “His fitness history is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”