Arteta Praises a More Dependable Team and Confirms Havertz Setback.

Arsenal's manager remains confident that his team can keep managing with fitness issues after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back at the start of this month, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has more options,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his character, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back involved and playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”