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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been absent since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “the required stage.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update creates a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”