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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his squad can continue to cope with player absences after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been sidelined since August after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to come back at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “the next phase.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Absolutely, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Speaking about the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his nature. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back around the team and playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”