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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update presents a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if more options was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, personally, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back around the team and playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”