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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with fitness issues after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a far better place to navigate such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at this level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”