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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can keep managing with player absences after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the next phase.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to have him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”