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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his side can keep managing with player absences after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been absent for months following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Further fitness issues involve defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in central defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players during the summer has placed the club in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was benefiting their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in some areas, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

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 subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager 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 personality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to get him back with the squad playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”