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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been absent for months following an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, because this season has been worse in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return around the team and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”