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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can keep managing with fitness issues after disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent since the summer due to knee surgery. Initially expected to come back earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Persist

More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a far better place to handle such unavailability.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their title quest, his response was positive. “Yes, because this season has seen more issues in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”