Mikel Arteta has expressed his deep concern over the growing list of injured players at Arsenal, warning that the current workload of his squad is an accident waiting to happen.
Arteta's concerns were exacerbated this week when Kai Havertz, the Germany forward, was ruled out for the remainder of the season, joining a lengthy list of absentees that has hindered Arsenal's progress in recent weeks.
The Arsenal manager has been vocal about the need for careful player management, citing the grueling schedule and lack of adequate rest periods as major contributing factors to the alarming rate of injuries.
With the season entering its final stretch, Arteta is under immense pressure to navigate his team through the remaining fixtures without suffering any further setbacks, a task that is becoming increasingly difficult given the depleted state of his squad.
The loss of Havertz is a significant blow, as the German forward had begun to establish himself as a key player in Arteta's lineup, providing a unique blend of creativity and goal-scoring ability that will be difficult to replace.
Arteta will now be forced to delve into his squad's depth, relying on players who have had limited playing time this season to step up and fill the void left by Havertz and the other injured players.
While the Arsenal manager remains confident in the ability of his players to adapt and overcome the current challenges, he is also aware that the situation is precarious, and that one more significant injury could derail the team's chances of achieving their season objectives.
As the stakes continue to rise, Arteta will be hoping that his players can navigate the remaining fixtures without sustaining any further injuries, and that those currently sidelined can return to action as quickly as possible to bolster the team's chances of success.