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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can continue to cope with fitness issues after confirming that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been out for months following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the league leaders.

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

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

When asked if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the complication previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his personality. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back around the team playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”