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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to be available at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and could not progress “the required stage.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”