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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his side can continue to cope with fitness issues following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been sidelined since August after undergoing knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update presents a selection headache for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on new players ahead of this season has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we are to fight at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, in my view, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”