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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can keep managing with player absences after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined since August due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his recovery and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

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