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The Gunners' boss remains confident that his squad can persist in handling with injury setbacks following disclosing that attacker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The Germany international has been out since the summer after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to come back at the start of this month, the manager stated the player hit a snag when stepping up his training and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a group that is much more reliable and has more options,” Arteta said.

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This development leaves a selection headache for the midweek home game against Brentford. The manager needs to decide between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who found the net playing out of position against Chelsea, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who made a return off the bench off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus remains available post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Remain

More doubts affect centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the weekend encounter. Consequently, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the Premier League front-runners.

Arteta believes the substantial investment on new players in the last transfer window has resulted in a far better place to navigate such absences.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

When asked if more options was helping their championship push, the manager agreed. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges 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 have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at this level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Suffering Star

Speaking about the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided more insight. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the required step and now the signs are like we have unlocked that.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, it’s a player that, personally, I value highly for his contributions to the team, but his character, his attitude. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His availability record is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to get him back around the team on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a significant uplift.”