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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can persist in handling with player absences following confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is far more dependable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in central defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players during the summer has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, his response was positive. “Indeed, since the current term has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to get him back involved on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”