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Mikel Arteta feels assured that his squad can persist in handling with fitness issues after revealing that forward Kai Havertz is not ready for a few more weeks.

Prolonged Recovery for Havertz

Havertz has been out since August following knee surgery. Hoped to return at the start of this month, Arteta explained the player encountered a problem when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “to the next level.”

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

Tactical Decisions for Brentford Clash

This update creates a dilemma for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. Arteta must choose between continuing to use Mikel Merino, who scored as a makeshift striker last weekend, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also available post-recovery.

Fitness Doubts Linger

Additional concerns surround defender William Saliba and winger Leandro Trossard, who both missed the Chelsea match. As a result, new recruits Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in central defence for the Premier League front-runners.

The manager is convinced the substantial investment on squad depth in the last transfer window has placed the club in a more robust situation to deal with such setbacks.

Squad Depth Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if a larger pool of players was aiding their league challenge, Arteta was emphatic. “Absolutely, because this season has presented greater challenges in some areas, and now what’s happening with the defence,” he continued.

“We learned from the past that we need to utilize players in alternative spots, and they must be capable to perform various functions if we want to compete at the highest level. And the instance of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”

Arteta's Support for Suffering Havertz

Speaking about the complication previously mentioned by national team coach Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the next level and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”

The manager conveyed his keenness to see him return. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I love so much for what he brings to the team, but his character, his attitude. I see him suffer being outside.”

“His playing record is exceptional, he’s been always available, and I look forward to get him back around the team on the pitch because I think it’s going to be a significant uplift.”