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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with player absences following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

Havertz has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when advancing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in central defence for the table-toppers.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

When asked if increased squad depth was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in different positions, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the complication previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”