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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can continue to cope with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been out since August following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is much more reliable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on new players during the summer has resulted in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was aiding their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”