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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined since August following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”