Kai Havertz, Arsenal and a big Champions League night all come together as the Gunners prepare to face Kairat Almaty. This match feels very important for Havertz, who needs minutes, confidence, and rhythm. Arsenal have already qualified, but this game still matters. It is a chance to rotate the squad, rest key players, and help others find form. Fans will be watching closely to see who starts and what it means for the weekend.
"I'm sure in the next few weeks he will get minutes" đź”´
Mikel Arteta reveals Kai Havertz is very close to a full return to first team football and claims it's "great" to have him back. pic.twitter.com/qOxeQeMfLw
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 23, 2026
Why Kai Havertz? Arsenal need this game
Kai Havertz and Arsenal have been linked together all season, but it has not always been easy. The German attacker has struggled with fitness and form, and questions have followed him. He did not come off the bench against Inter Milan, which surprised many fans. Instead, Viktor Gyokeres was brought on.
Arsenal have had problems scoring goals and creating clear chances. Because of this, many supporters feel Havertz should play to help fix those issues. Mikel Arteta has said Havertz is “very close” to full fitness. This match is a perfect chance to give him time on the pitch without too much pressure.
Kai Havertz, Arsenal rotation and team changes
Kai Havertz Arsenal are expecting to make several changes for this match. Arteta will want to protect his main players before the Premier League game against Leeds United. That means chances for players who do not always start.
Christian Nørgaard could finally get minutes after often being left out. His experience and calm passing could help control the midfield. Mikel Merino will not play, as he is got suspend. Which has already caused confusion among some fans.
Out wide, Gabriel Martinelli did not play against Manchester United, so he could return. Noni Madueke is also expecting to feature again as Arteta continues to test his options.
In defence, Marli Salmon may play once more after appearing in recent cup matches. Piero Hincapie needs more fitness and could benefit from a start or time off the bench. Riccardo Calafiori has get back to training and might be slowly brought back into action.
Another exciting option is Eberechi Eze. This game gives him a chance to build confidence and show what he can offer alongside young talent like Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Fan reactions: Calm vs panic
Arsenal fans have mixed feelings going into this match. Some are calm and believe this not the time to get panick. They point out that rival teams have also lost games recently. Others are more worried and feel Arsenal should already look sharper.
One fan reaction summed it up by saying fans always overreact, especially when results dip slightly. However, many agree that this match should answer some questions, especially about Havertz and squad depth.
The Importance of This Match for Arsenal
A good performance by Havertz in this match could have a positive impact on Arsenal’s future, as it provides added momentum for the team while giving Arteta an expanded set of choices for attacking options.
Since rotation players will be part of this game as well, the quality of their performance could affect Arteta’s future player selection for upcoming matches against Leeds and also give the club additional momentum if all goes well. However, with or without good results, this will still be a very important game, and there is more at stake than initially appears.
Conclusion: All eyes on Havertz
This is a big chance for Kai Havertz and Arsenal. With less pressure and more chances to play freely, this match could be very important. Havertz needs minutes, confidence, and rhythm. A strong performance here could help him feel comfortable again, improve his form, and give Arsenal more attacking options as the season moves into a busy and important period.
As featured on GoonerNews.com