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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been out since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a dilemma for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has resulted in a far better place to deal with such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their title quest, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back around the team and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”