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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his side can keep managing with fitness issues after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

When asked if more options was aiding their title quest, his response was positive. “Yes, because this season has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his personality. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”