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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and could not progress “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”