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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with injury setbacks after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent since August after undergoing an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back sooner, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”