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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined for months following an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was aiding their title quest, the manager agreed. “Yes, because this season has seen more issues in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to see him return involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”