Mikel Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Reveals Havertz Setback.

The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can persist in handling with fitness issues after disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Linger

More doubts affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

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

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”