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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his team can continue to cope with player absences following disclosing that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for the coming weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent for months after undergoing knee surgery. Originally slated to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his recovery and was unable to move forward “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a squad that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update creates a selection headache for Wednesday’s fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue as a substitute. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also in contention following a lengthy absence.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Consequently, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably keep their places in the heart of the defence for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to deal with such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if increased squad depth was aiding their championship push, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in the attacking line, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we must deploy players in various roles, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at this level. And the case of Mikel Merino.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

He shared his eagerness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, he is a footballer who, personally, I love so much for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I watch him struggle being outside.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back involved on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”