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Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his team can persist in handling with fitness issues after confirming that attacker Kai Havertz is not ready for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

Havertz has been sidelined since the summer due to knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta revealed the player hit a snag when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “the next phase.”

“We took lessons, and managed to assemble a group that is considerably steadier and has greater depth,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This update leaves a dilemma for Wednesday’s home game against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back after a fitness issue off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also available following a lengthy absence.

Fitness Doubts Persist

Additional concerns involve centre-back William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in the heart of the defence for the league leaders.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on reinforcements ahead of this season has resulted in a more robust situation to handle such absences.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

In response if more options was benefiting their championship push, his response was positive. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in various roles, and they have to be able to perform various functions if we aim to challenge at the highest level. And the example of Mikel is just the best one.”

Arteta's Support for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the delay noted by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta provided further detail. “He followed all protocols. He was unable to progress to the next level and now the signs are like we have overcome that hurdle.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to have him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. I mean, it’s a player that, personally, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his nature. I see him suffer while sidelined.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I look forward to get him back with the squad playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”