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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been out since the summer following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and failed to reach “the next phase.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

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