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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been absent since August due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the complication previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back involved on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”