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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can keep managing with player absences following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined for months due to an operation on his knee. Hoped to return earlier in December, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was helping their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at the top. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Star

Addressing the delay noted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the next level and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back around the team on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”