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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been out since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to return at the start of this month, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when advancing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, his response was positive. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at this level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I look forward to have him back involved on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”