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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been out since August following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available sooner, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts affect 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 the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has been worse in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at this level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return around the team on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”