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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with fitness issues after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since August following knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”