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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been absent since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was benefiting their title quest, the manager agreed. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles 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 noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”