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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with fitness issues after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been absent since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a more robust situation to handle such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, since the current term has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“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 is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the required step and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”