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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his team can keep managing with player absences after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined for months following knee surgery. Originally slated to return sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

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

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was benefiting their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”