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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Originally slated to be available earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in alternative spots, 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.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the setback previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

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