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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 Havertz

The Germany international has been out since the summer due to knee surgery. Originally slated to come back at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player encountered a problem when advancing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is much more reliable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal playing out of position on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Further fitness issues affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on reinforcements in the last transfer window has placed the club in a far better place to handle such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if more options was aiding their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, as this campaign has seen more issues in certain positions, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in different positions, and they need to be prepared to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Commenting on the complication noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Truly, Havertz is someone that, personally, I admire greatly for the qualities he offers to the team, but his character, his attitude. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back around the team playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”