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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can continue to cope with player absences following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined since August following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is much more reliable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such unavailability.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back involved playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”