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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been absent since August due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has been worse in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”