Mikel Arteta says Arsenal’s improved squad depth will help them cope after confirming Kai Havertz will be out for a few more weeks. The Germany forward, sidelined since August following knee surgery, suffered a setback when he tried to increase the intensity of his rehabilitation.
Arteta must now choose whether to continue with Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker for Wednesday’s match against Brentford or recall Viktor Gyökeres, who returned from a muscle injury at Chelsea. Gabriel Jesus is also nearing a comeback after 11 months out.
William Saliba and Leandro Trossard remain fitness doubts, meaning summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié could again start in central defence. Arteta believes Arsenal’s heavy investment this summer has created a “more reliable” squad capable of adapting to injuries.
He praised the versatility of his players and highlighted Merino’s performance as a prime example of their flexibility.
Arteta also expressed strong support for Havertz after his setback, saying the club had finally “unlocked” what was preventing his progress. He described Havertz as a player he “loves” for his quality and personality, adding that his return will give Arsenal a “massive boost.”
