Arteta Warns of Inevitable Injuries Amid Packed Schedule
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Synopsis
Arsenal's training camp in Dubai took a hit as striker Kai Havertz suffers a hamstring tear, sidelining him for the season. Coach Mikel Arteta cites the congested schedule as a key factor leading to injuries, calling it an 'accident waiting to happen'. Despite setbacks, the team remains eager to face upcoming challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Kai Havertz sustains a serious injury, out for the season.
- Arteta highlights the risks of a congested schedule.
- Arsenal advanced in the Champions League but exited the FA Cup.
- Only a few forwards remain fit ahead of the upcoming match against Leicester City.
- Ben White returns, while Bukayo Saka is in rehab.
London, Feb 14 (NationPress) Arsenal faced a significant blow during their training retreat in Dubai when their sole available striker Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring tear. This injury has sidelined the German forward for the remainder of the season, further limiting the options for Arsenal's attacking line.
Head coach Mikel Arteta asserts that the overloaded schedule has rendered injuries 'unavoidable' as the team gears up for the crucial stretch leading to the March international break.
"Given the physical demands and playing time, it's unavoidable. It's a situation ripe for accidents. This season has seen a build-up of stress. Is it just bad luck? The schedule is indeed taxing, particularly for explosive athletes, and it can pose issues," Arteta stated during a press briefing.
Arsenal successfully progressed directly to the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League, but were eliminated from the FA Cup in the third round by Manchester United, both outcomes allowing them a week to regroup during their Dubai trip.
While Havertz's injury is undoubtedly a setback, Arteta expressed that his squad 'embraces' the upcoming challenges.
"We were enjoying a productive camp in Dubai, recharging, training, and connecting with nature in a new environment. Then, the injury struck unexpectedly, which is a significant setback given our current injury situation.
"Fortunately, we have faced numerous challenges this season, and it's a test I relish. We enjoy the challenge. Let's see how resilient the team can be. Any club in this league losing four key players in the attack would struggle, and I know what the outcome would be," Arteta added.
The Gunners are set to host Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium this Saturday, with only Ethan Nwaneri, Raheem Sterling, and Leo Trossard available to start in the league match. However, there is a slight positive as fullback Ben White returns for the first time since his last appearance on November 10 against Chelsea. Arteta also confirmed that Bukayo Saka is nearing his comeback but is not quite ready yet.
"It's still early for Saka; he's in the initial phase of his rehabilitation. When he can increase his workload, we'll assess how he is progressing. Ben White is training regularly now. We need to manage his fitness, but he is available," Arteta concluded.
