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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer due to knee surgery. Originally slated to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a dilemma for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on new players during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was benefiting their title quest, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to get him back around the team playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”