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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a far better place to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was aiding their title quest, his response was positive. “Indeed, because this season has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return around the team on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”