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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues after revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has been worse in the attacking line, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back involved playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”