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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his team can persist in handling with player absences after confirming that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for the coming weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

The German forward has been sidelined since the summer after undergoing an operation on his knee. Originally slated to return earlier in December, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when advancing his recovery and was unable to move forward “to the next level.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a team that is far more dependable and has increased versatility,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This update creates a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench as a substitute. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also in contention after 11 months out.

Defensive Concerns Linger

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Stamford Bridge game. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the significant outlay on reinforcements in the last transfer window has left Arsenal in a far better place to navigate such absences.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

In response if more options was benefiting their league challenge, his response was positive. “Yes, since the current term has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he continued.

“History has shown us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Addressing the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered more insight. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to see him return. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, for me, I value highly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his personality. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is outstanding, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back around the team on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”