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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with fitness issues after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined for months following an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available earlier in December, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when increasing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth in the last transfer window has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, since the current term has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”