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Arsenal's manager has expressed confidence that his side can keep managing with player absences following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

Havertz has been out since August following an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, as this campaign has been worse in the attacking line, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he added.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, personally, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to get him back around the team playing because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”