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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can continue to cope with player absences following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been absent since the summer following knee surgery. Originally slated to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update creates a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Commenting on the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”