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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

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

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to see him return involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”