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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been absent for months due to knee surgery. Initially expected to come back sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has placed the club in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Addressing the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to see him return around the team and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”