Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are well equipped to handle further injuries after confirming Kai Havertz will be out for a few more weeks. The Germany forward, sidelined since August following knee surgery, suffered a setback during rehabilitation and has not been able to progress to full training.
Arteta must now decide whether to continue using Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker against Brentford on Wednesday or recall Viktor Gyökeres, who recently returned from injury. Gabriel Jesus is also pushing for involvement after nearly a year out.
There are additional concerns over William Saliba and Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match, meaning summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié may again start in central defence.
Arteta said Arsenal’s improved depth—bolstered by £250m of summer spending—has made the squad “more reliable” and better able to cope with injuries. He highlighted the importance of players adapting to multiple roles, pointing to Merino’s versatility.
Arteta added that the club is “desperate” to have Havertz back, praising his character and consistency, and expressing confidence that unlocking the next stage of his recovery will provide a major boost.
