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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with fitness issues after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out for months following an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”