Arteta optimistic about Havertz and Jorginho making a comeback for Arsenal before the season concludes

Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, shared some encouraging news on Friday regarding potential injury returns for Kai Havertz and Jorginho as the Champions League semi-finalists look ahead to the end of the season.

Speaking to the media before Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth on Saturday, Arteta expressed optimism that French centre-back William Saliba would remain with the club despite reported interest from Real Madrid.

German forward Havertz has been sidelined since early February due to hamstring surgery, and was initially expected to miss the remainder of the season, while midfielder Jorginho suffered a rib injury in April.

“If everything continues as it is currently progressing and according to plan, I believe he’ll have an opportunity to play a few matches before the season concludes,” Arteta commented, referring to Havertz.

“Jorginho remains unavailable. His situation has turned out to be a bit more complex than we anticipated. Fortunately, he’s doing well and recovering nicely.”

“If all goes well in the upcoming week or so, I think he’ll gradually reintegrate into the team.”

Regarding Saliba, Arteta shared that recent discussions suggested the player is keen to stay at the club.

“I’m fairly confident that William is very content here and views this as his ideal environment,” he stated.

Arsenal are vying for a spot in the Champions League final after a 1-0 defeat in the home semi-final leg against Paris Saint-Germain, and they currently sit second in the Premier League, where Liverpool have already secured the title with four matches remaining.

A victory against Bournemouth, led by Arteta’s former colleague and fellow Spaniard Andoni Iraola, could potentially secure Arsenal a Champions League berth for next season.

Arteta extended his congratulations to Liverpool on their well-deserved title but admitted that it’s disheartening to miss out once again.

“Definitely,” he remarked. “I recognise that Liverpool has been more consistent and possess many qualities necessary to succeed, but it’s very painful.”

“We still have a lot to compete for in both the Premier League and Champions League,” he added. “Our focus is firmly on those competitions.”