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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his side can persist in handling with player absences following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been absent since August due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”