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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues after confirming that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been out since August due to knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly after a fitness issue as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was helping their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he added.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at this level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the complication noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”