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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks after disclosing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been sidelined for months after undergoing knee surgery. Initially expected to be available at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when advancing his training and could not progress “the next phase.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update leaves a selection headache for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between persisting with Mikel Merino, who found the net in an unfamiliar forward role on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. As a result, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to keep their places in the heart of the defence for the table-toppers.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on new players during the summer has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Squad Depth Vital for Title Challenge

In response if increased squad depth was aiding their title quest, his response was positive. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the defence,” he continued.

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

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Speaking about the delay highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have overcome that hurdle.”

The manager conveyed his personal desire to welcome him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his mentality, his nature. I observe his frustration while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's usually fit, and I can’t wait to have him back around the team on the pitch because I feel it’s going to be a massive boost.”