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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with fitness issues after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”