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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can persist in handling with fitness issues following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out since August due to knee surgery. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was benefiting their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use 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 instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, for me, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”