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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in central defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was helping their championship push, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”