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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been absent for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”