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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his side can persist in handling with fitness issues following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been out for months following an operation on his knee. Hoped to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and could not progress “the next phase.”

“Our experience helped us build a squad that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the significant outlay on squad depth in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now what’s happening with the backline,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at this level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “He was doing everything. He could not go 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 love so much for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to have him back involved on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”