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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent since August due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, for me, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”