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Arsenal's manager remains confident that his team can continue to cope with player absences after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined since August due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the setback noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”