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The Gunners' boss feels assured that his side can continue to cope with player absences following revealing that attacker Kai Havertz remains out for a few more weeks.

Extended Absence for Havertz

The Germany international has been out since August after undergoing knee surgery. Hoped to return sooner, Arteta explained the player faced a hurdle when increasing his recovery and failed to reach “to the next level.”

“We learned, and we were able to put together a squad that is far more dependable and has more options,” stated the manager.

Selection Dilemma for Midweek Fixture

This news creates a selection headache for the midweek fixture at the Emirates against Brentford. Arteta must choose between sticking with Mikel Merino, who got a goal as a makeshift striker on Sunday, or recalling Viktor Gyökeres, who featured briefly off the bench off the bench. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.

Fitness Doubts Remain

More doubts surround centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who sat out the Chelsea match. As a result, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié will probably continue in the backline for the table-toppers.

Arteta feels the £250m spend on squad depth in the last transfer window has placed the club in a far better place to navigate such setbacks.

Greater Options Key to Title Challenge

Questioned if increased squad depth was helping their title quest, Arteta was emphatic. “Yes, because this season has presented greater challenges in certain positions, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.

“We learned from the past that we have to use players in alternative spots, and they have to be able to fulfil different roles if we are to fight at the highest level. And the case of Mikel is just the best one.”

Manager’s Sympathy for Frustrated Star

Speaking about the setback highlighted by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, the manager gave more insight. “He was doing everything. He failed to advance to the subsequent stage and now it’s looking like we have solved that issue.”

Arteta expressed his keenness to welcome him back. “Everyone is eager to have him. Truly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I admire greatly for his contributions to the team, but his personality, his nature. I observe his frustration on the sidelines.”

“His availability record is exceptional, he's usually fit, and I am eagerly awaiting to get him back involved playing because I believe it’s going to be a massive boost.”