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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks after confirming that forward Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Persist

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was aiding their title quest, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I look forward to have him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”