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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Remain

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on reinforcements during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the setback noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”