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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks following confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out for months due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and could not progress “the required stage.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development presents a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Further fitness issues surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the substantial investment on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in different positions, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, for me, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his personality. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

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