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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can continue to cope with injury setbacks after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts surround defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a far better place to navigate such unavailability.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the setback highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He followed all protocols. He failed to advance to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His playing record is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I look forward to see him return with the squad and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”