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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can persist in handling with player absences after revealing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been absent since the summer due to an operation on his knee. Originally slated to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update presents a dilemma for the midweek home game against Brentford. A decision is required between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if more options was aiding their title quest, his response was positive. “Indeed, as this campaign has seen more issues in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he added.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in different positions, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his nature. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to get him back involved and playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”