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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his side can keep managing with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent for months following knee surgery. Initially expected to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to navigate such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”