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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can persist in handling with player absences after revealing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been out for months due to knee surgery. Initially expected to return sooner, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his personality. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”