Mikel Arteta is expected to select a rotated team ahead of Arsenal clash with Kairat Almaty
06:00, 28 Jan 2026Updated 08:04, 28 Jan 2026
Riccardo Calafiori and Kai Havertz are both in contention to start for Arsenal against Kairat Almaty
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Riccardo Calafiori and Kai Havertz are both in contention to start for Arsenal against Kairat Almaty(Image: GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal take on Kairat Almaty in the UEFA Champions League, looking to wrap up the league phase of the competition with a perfect eight wins from eight. The Gunners are in need of a win to restore momentum following the damaging defeat at home to Manchester United.
Both Mikel Merino and Declan Rice are suspended for the match, having picked up two yellow cards during the league phase of the competition. Whereas William Saliba, Jurrien Timber and Max Dowman were not spotted in training, the latter still injured, the former pair, it appears, rested.
There could be plenty of less familiar faces involved and perhaps even some youth players given a rare opportunity. Arteta has some interesting decisions to make and football.london has our thoughts on what we are expecting and why:
Kepa Arrizabalaga
Not played in the Champions League so far, but with a second-leg tie against Chelsea next week in the League Cup semi-final, it could be some good preparation.
Ben White
With Jurrien Timber not spotted in training, this opens the door for Benjamin White to return at right back and play from the start.
Cristhian Mosquera
The Spaniard has returned to fitness and was excellent against Inter Milan, and has the chance now to get more minutes under his belt.
Riccardo Calafiori
Back training and the chance to play and start at centre-half in this particular match could be the perfect way to ease the Italian into matchday action.
Myles Lewis-Skelly
Another chance to show his talents after an encouraging display in Italy, when facing Inter Milan, re-energised the defender.
Christian Norgaard
The Danish midfielder was very open about his situation and considered himself happy despite the lack of game time, and he is due to get some valuable exposure.
Martin Odegaard
The captain has come in for some criticism lately and arguably needs some time out, but with both Rice and Merino suspended, there are not many available options in midfield.
Eberechi Eze
This does mean that the Odegaard-Eze midfield partnership can be tested, which might bear some fruit.
Noni Madueke
Bukayo Saka makes way for Madueke, who came in for some specific criticism from Arteta after the game against Man Utd.
Kai Havertz
This is a game where Kai Havertz simply must play, from the start or the bench, and if he doesn’t get some minutes, it will raise questions over his fitness.
Gabriel Martinelli
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Another who didn’t get any minutes at the weekend, it is a chance for Martinelli to continue his fine form in this competition.
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