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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his team can keep managing with fitness issues following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been out since the summer due to knee surgery. Originally slated to return sooner, Arteta explained the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the backline for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on new players in the last transfer window has placed the club in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if more options was aiding their league challenge, his response was positive. “Indeed, since the current term has been worse in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to perform various functions if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

He shared his keenness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, for me, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to have him back with the squad on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a significant uplift.”