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 in rehab and was unable to “go to the next level,” delaying his return.
Arteta must now decide whether to keep Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker against Brentford or turn to Viktor Gyökeres, who recently returned from injury. Gabriel Jesus is also pushing for involvement after 11 months out.
Arsenal may again be without William Saliba and Leandro Trossard, meaning summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in central defence. Arteta believes the club’s £250m summer investment has created a “more reliable” squad capable of handling injuries across the pitch.
He highlighted the importance of players adapting to multiple roles, citing Merino as a prime example. Arteta also stressed how much Arsenal want Havertz back, praising his character and consistency, and expressing confidence that the team will receive a “massive boost” when he returns.
