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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with player absences after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was aiding their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

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

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”