Mikel Arteta says Arsenal’s strengthened squad is helping them cope with a fresh injury setback, confirming that Kai Havertz will be out for a few more weeks after struggling to progress in his recovery from knee surgery. The Germany international had been expected to return earlier this month but was unable to “go to the next level” during rehabilitation.
For Wednesday’s match against Brentford, Arteta must choose between continuing with Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker—after his goal against Chelsea—or recalling 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 could continue in central defence. Arteta credited the club’s £250m summer investment for creating a “more reliable” and versatile squad capable of absorbing injuries.
He reiterated his admiration for Havertz, saying the midfielder’s absence has been difficult for the player: “I love what he brings to the team… I can’t wait to have him back because he’ll give us a massive boost.”
