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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with player absences after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been out since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in some areas, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Commenting on the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”