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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined since August due to knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development presents a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in central defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to deal with such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the setback noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”