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The Gunners' boss has expressed confidence that his side can persist in handling with player absences following revealing that forward Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been out for months following knee surgery. Initially expected to return sooner, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news presents a dilemma for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was benefiting their title quest, the manager agreed. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at this level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, for me, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back involved playing because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”