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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his team can continue to cope with injury setbacks after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been absent since August following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Persist

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

When asked if a larger pool of players was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the setback noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, for me, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his attitude. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to see him return around the team on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”