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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been out since August following knee surgery. Hoped to come back earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”