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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to see him return with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”