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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can keep managing with player absences after confirming that forward Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his training and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is considerably steadier and has more options,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update leaves a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”