Arteta Hails a More Dependable Team and Acknowledges Kai Havertz Injury Blow.

Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with injury setbacks following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The Germany international has been absent for months after undergoing an operation on his knee. Initially expected to come back sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when increasing his rehabilitation and was unable to move forward “the required stage.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue in the latter stages. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is an option following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns affect centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players ahead of this season has placed the club in a far better place to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was aiding their title quest, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he noted.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in different positions, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the delay previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his personality. I observe his frustration being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a massive boost.”