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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since August after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to come back earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back 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 start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was helping their title quest, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”