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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been absent since the summer due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

More doubts surround 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 backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if more options was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, since the current term has been worse in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”