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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent since the summer following knee surgery. Hoped to come back sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his training and failed to reach “the required stage.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is considerably steadier and has more options,” Arteta said.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news creates a tactical puzzle for the midweek home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker against Chelsea, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return from a muscle injury off the bench. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus remains an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

Further fitness issues involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, recent arrivals Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to start again in central defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a much stronger position to handle such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge

Questioned if more options was helping their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, since the current term has been worse in some areas, and now the problems with the backline,” he added.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they have to be able to adapt to new tasks if we want to compete at the top. And the example of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Addressing the complication highlighted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the subsequent stage and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

He shared his personal desire to see him return. “Everyone is eager to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I am eagerly awaiting to see him return around the team and playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”