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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can keep managing with player absences following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to be available sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a dilemma for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back around the team playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”