The Arsenal lineup saw the return of German player Kai Havertz to the starting lineup after a long absence of 357 days. The player is set to start again from February 5, 2025, following a period of absence due to injury.

Havertz's return to the starting lineup against Kazakhstan's Kairat Almaty in the eighth round of the league stage in the UEFA Champions League marks the end of a long absence from starting with the team.

Havertz's last significant appearance before this match was against Newcastle United in the second leg of the English League Cup semi-final, as an injury had kept him off the field for a long time.

The return of the German international came after a full recovery and regaining fitness, allowing him to be considered by the coaching staff during a crucial stage of the season, with hopes that he will be a significant addition to Arsenal in the upcoming challenges.