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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his side can persist in handling with player absences following disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when increasing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update presents a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Indeed, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He followed all protocols. He could not go to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his eagerness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, for me, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to see him return involved and playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”