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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can continue to cope with injury setbacks after revealing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been absent for months due to knee surgery. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update presents a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns 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 are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, personally, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”