Mikel Arteta has expressed concerns about the recoveries of Kai Havertz and Gabriel following their surgeries, suggesting that Arsenal may need to reconsider their transfer strategy.
Arsenal is facing the setback of losing key defender Gabriel for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury sustained in their recent 2-1 victory over Fulham.
Gabriel joins Havertz, who is also recovering from hamstring surgery in February and is expected to return next season. Additionally, Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu are sidelined until the end of 2025.
Arsenal manager Arteta had previously indicated that the upcoming summer transfer window would be significant, with the club aiming to recruit a top-level striker.
However, Arteta now suggests that their transfer plans might need to be adjusted depending on the progress of Gabriel and Havertz during pre-season. The club needs to assess whether a larger squad is necessary to manage their workload upon their return.
Speaking before Arsenal’s match against Everton, Arteta acknowledged the difficulty in planning for the summer transfer window given the current injury situation. He stated, “It makes it harder.”
“There are some players who will begin the season following surgery, which always presents uncertainty.”
“We are unsure of their capacity to handle a demanding schedule.”
“We will see if this influences our transfer decisions, but we must be mindful of it.”
“There are many unknowns regarding what some of these players will be able to endure, particularly in the initial months of the season.”
Arsenal has experienced a series of hamstring injuries this season, with four players affected.
Gabriel Martinelli was sidelined for a month earlier in the year, and Bukayo Saka recently returned from a December surgery, making his comeback against Fulham.
While Havertz might resume training by June, Gabriel faces a more challenging recovery to be fit for the start of next season in early August.
Arteta has defended the club’s training and medical protocols against criticism, attributing injuries to factors “we cannot control.”
He mentioned resting Gabriel for previous games due to hamstring concerns, stating, “I was very tempted to play him.”
“If I had played him and he sustained the current injury, resulting in a four-month absence, I would face severe criticism.”
“Sometimes, even with maximum player protection, injuries still occur. Some elements are beyond our control.”
Ben White and Jurrien Timber are also questionable for the Everton match and the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid due to knee problems.
Timber sustained a knock against Fulham, and both defenders will undergo late fitness assessments before the Everton game.
Meanwhile, Saka is eager to start for the first time since December 21, having scored shortly after coming off the bench in the Fulham game.
Arteta noted, “He needs game time, and he will get it. He is pushing for more in the last couple of days, which is a positive indication.”
Marcus Bellamy