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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with player absences following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

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

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”