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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been absent since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a more robust situation to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now the situation with the defence,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his character, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I look forward to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”