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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been out since August after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the top. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to see him return involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”