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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following confirming that star striker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his training and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was helping their title quest, the manager agreed. “Indeed, because this season has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we are to fight at this level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I value highly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to see him return around the team and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”