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Mikel Arteta remains confident that his side can continue to cope with player absences following confirming that star striker Kai Havertz will not return for several more weeks.

Extended Absence for German Star

The German forward has been absent for months due to an operation on his knee. Initially expected to be available earlier in December, the manager stated the player encountered a problem when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is far more dependable and has more options,” commented Arteta.

Selection Dilemma for Brentford Clash

This news leaves a dilemma for the midweek match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position last weekend, or bringing back Viktor Gyökeres, who came back off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is an option post-recovery.

Defensive Concerns Persist

Further fitness issues affect defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Stamford Bridge game. Therefore, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are likely to continue in central defence for the league leaders.

Arteta believes the £250m spend on reinforcements during the summer has resulted in a more robust situation to deal with such setbacks.

Greater Options Vital for Premier League Pursuit

In response if a larger pool of players was benefiting their championship push, Arteta was emphatic. “Indeed, since the current term has seen more issues in certain positions, and now the situation with the defence,” he added.

“Our previous experiences taught us that we need to utilize players in various roles, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we are to fight at the top. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Havertz

Commenting on the complication highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave further detail. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the required step and now the signs are like we have solved that issue.”

The manager conveyed his eagerness to welcome him back. “We’re all desperate to have him. Truly, it’s a player that, in my view, I admire greatly for what he brings to the team, but his mentality, his personality. I watch him struggle while sidelined.”

“His fitness history is exceptional, he's rarely been injured, and I can’t wait to see him return with the squad playing because I feel it’s going to be a huge lift.”