Mikel Arteta has expressed significant concerns regarding the recoveries of Kai Havertz and Gabriel following their surgeries, suggesting Arsenal`s transfer strategy might need adjustments.
Arsenal is still dealing with the setback of losing Brazilian defender Gabriel for the remainder of the season. He underwent surgery for a hamstring injury sustained during Tuesday`s 2-1 victory over Fulham.
Havertz joins the injured list, with his return expected next season after February hamstring surgery. Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also expected to remain out until the end of 2025.
Arsenal manager Arteta had previously mentioned that this summer`s transfer window would be crucial, especially with new sporting director Andrea Berta involved, as they aim to recruit a top-tier number 9.
However, Arteta now suggests a possible change in targets based on Gabriel and Havertz`s recovery progress during pre-season. The club needs to assess if a larger squad is necessary to prevent overburdening these players upon their return.
Ahead of Arsenal`s match against Everton on Saturday, Arteta acknowledged the difficulty in planning for the summer transfer window given the current injury situation. He stated that the uncertainties around player recovery complicate matters.
“Some players will begin the season following surgery, which always raises significant questions,” Arteta explained.
“We are unsure of these players` capacity to handle intense periods of play.”
“We will see how this influences our transfer strategies, but we must be mindful of these factors.”
“There are many unknowns regarding what some of these players will be capable of managing, particularly in the initial months of the upcoming season.”
Arsenal has faced four hamstring injuries this season. Gabriel Martinelli was absent for a month earlier in the year, and Bukayo Saka recently returned against Fulham after a December surgery.
Havertz might resume training by June, but Gabriel faces a tougher recovery to be fit by the start of next season in early August.
Arteta defended the club’s training and medical approaches against criticism, stating that some issues are beyond their control.
He had previously rested center-back Gabriel for matches against Manchester United and Fulham in December due to a hamstring concern. Arteta commented, “I was very tempted to play him.”
“Had I played him, and he sustained the current injury, missing four months, I would face severe criticism.”
“Thus, even with player protection measures, these incidents can still occur. Some aspects are uncontrollable.”
Ben White and Jurrien Timber are also questionable for today’s game, as well as the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid next Tuesday, both dealing with knee problems.
Timber sustained an injury late in the Fulham match. Both defenders will undergo late fitness assessments on Saturday morning before the Everton game.
Meanwhile, Saka is aiming to start for the first time since December 21, after scoring shortly after coming off the bench in Tuesday’s game.
Arteta added, “He needs game time, and he will get it. Over the last couple of days, he’s been pushing for more, which is a positive sign.”
