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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent since the summer following an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we are to fight at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his personality. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back around the team on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”