Arteta Applauds ‘More Reliable’ Squad and Confirms Havertz Injury Blow.

The Gunners' boss feels assured that his side can persist in handling with injury setbacks after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been out since August due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to come back earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This news leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains in contention following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players during the summer has placed the club in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, his response was positive. “Absolutely, as this campaign has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they need to be prepared to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the delay highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is outstanding, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back involved on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”