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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out for months following knee surgery. Hoped to return sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update presents a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in central defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”