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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his training and failed to reach “the next phase.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in the backline for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to deal with such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

When asked if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in various roles, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided additional context. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”