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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can keep managing with player absences after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been out for months following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on reinforcements ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”