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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can keep managing with injury setbacks after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been out for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when increasing his rehabilitation and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on new players during the summer has resulted in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if more options was helping their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his keenness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”