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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his side can keep managing with fitness issues following confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The Germany international has been sidelined since August following knee surgery. Originally slated to return sooner, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when advancing his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

“Our experience helped us build a group that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Further fitness issues affect defender William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on reinforcements ahead of this season has placed the club in a more robust situation to navigate such unavailability.

Greater Options Key to Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if increased squad depth was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, because this season has presented greater challenges in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he continued.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we must deploy players in various roles, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Commenting on the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He failed to advance to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he’s been always available, and I can’t wait to get him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”