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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his team can continue to cope with player absences after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been absent since August following knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his training and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has greater depth,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the weekend encounter. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on squad depth in the last transfer window has placed the club in a much stronger position to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

When asked if more options was aiding their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we must deploy players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at this level. And the instance of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return around the team playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”