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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following revealing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been out for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back around the team playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”