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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was aiding their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in certain positions, and now what’s happening 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 perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

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