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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent since August after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development presents a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”