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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can continue to cope with fitness issues following confirming that forward Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined since August after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when advancing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Commenting on the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, personally, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”