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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has seen more issues in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”