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Arsenal's manager feels assured that his team can keep managing with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to return sooner, the manager stated the player hit a snag when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has been worse in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to have him back with the squad and playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”