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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can continue to cope with injury setbacks following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined for months due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in central defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was helping their championship push, his response was positive. “Indeed, since the current term has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to see him return involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”