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

Prolonged Recovery for German Star

The German forward has been out for months after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to return earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when increasing his training and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This development creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored in an unfamiliar forward role against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Remain

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably start again in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta feels the significant outlay on squad depth ahead of this season has resulted in a far better place to deal with such absences.

Squad Depth Vital for Premier League Pursuit

Questioned if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, as this campaign has been worse in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“History has shown us that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel Merino.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Star

Commenting on the setback previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “He was doing everything. He could not go to the required step and now it’s looking like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his personal desire to have him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to see him return around the team playing because I think it’s going to be a huge lift.”