Arteta Praises a More Dependable Team and Acknowledges Havertz Injury Blow.

The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues following revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since August following knee surgery. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when increasing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was aiding their title quest, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress 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. Honestly, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back around the team and playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”