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

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been absent since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at this level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to see him return involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”