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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with player absences following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been absent for months following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “the required stage.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on squad depth ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the delay previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”