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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been out since August after undergoing an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

When asked if more options was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, personally, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team playing because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”