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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can keep managing with fitness issues following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined for months following knee surgery. Hoped to be available earlier in December, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Further fitness issues surround centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the weekend encounter. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to start again in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the £250m spend on new players during the summer has left Arsenal in a more robust situation to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Addressing the setback noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He was doing everything. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his eagerness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His playing record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return involved playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”