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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is considerably steadier and has more options,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”