Arsenal are looking to turn a page after losing to Manchester United, starting in the Champions League against Kairat Almaty.
In the final league phase game of the 2025/26 Champions League, Arsenal welcome Kairat to the Emirates with nothing to lose.
While that’s true in terms of their position in the Champions League table, it’s not necessarily the whole truth.
Arsenal need to give their fans confidence again after the devastating loss to Man United, and Kairat presents the perfect opportunity.
Mikel Arteta will certainly rotate his side, which might explain why four players have missed training ahead of the fixture.
Journalist Tom Canton was present at Arsenal’s opening training session at Colney, and confirmed that William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, Mikel Merino and Max Dowman were absent.
Mass changes expected for Arsenal vs Kairat Almaty
The Kazakhstan Premier League is no match for the English Premier League.
Which players would you like to see rotated against Kairat?
With no disrespect to Kairat, their chances at the Emirates are extremely slim, but not impossible.
It’s positive for Arsenal, who not only need a win but will be able to rest and rotate their squad, which will allow some rarely-seen stars to take part.
Myles Lewis-Skelly will be eyeing a chance to start, as will Gabriel Martinelli, two players who could punish Kairat when at their best.
It will be fascinating to see if any academy stars are trusted in the Champions League, in a match that will trigger change.
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