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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can persist in handling with player absences after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since August due to knee surgery. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a far better place to deal with such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

When asked if increased squad depth was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”