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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can continue to cope with player absences after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a far better place to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was helping their title quest, his response was positive. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He could not go to the required step and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”