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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been absent for months after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to come back sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth during the summer has resulted in a more robust situation to deal with such absences.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Yes, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the delay previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”