logo

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Lineups, and Predictions

After the recent PSG and Barcelona showdown in Bavaria, another major match awaits as Bayern Munich hosts Arsenal on Wednesday. Both teams are determined to follow PSG's example, who recently defeated Manchester City and Barcelona, showing they're not giving up their title easily.

The two sides were semifinalists last season, meeting in the quarterfinals where Bayern edged Arsenal with a 3–2 aggregate. Arsenal struck back during last season’s group stage with a 3–1 win at Emirates Stadium.

Bayern holds six European titles, whereas Arsenal has yet to claim the trophy but came close in Budapest recently. Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's steady rise hints this could be their breakthrough year.

So far this season, Arsenal has maintained a strong group stage record with wins over Napoli and Lille. Bayern started with a commanding win over Bodø/Glimt but were held by Viking last week.

Score Prediction: A Tight Draw

The matchup contrasts Bayern’s explosive attack against Arsenal’s solid defense. Arsenal has not conceded a goal in this Champions League campaign, while Bayern scored 36 goals in their last 10 matches, including seven in the opening two games of the group stage.

Arsenal's defensive discipline was clear in the final against PSG, proving they can silence even top offenses. We think their defense might hold firm again here, but an early goal could tilt confidence significantly.

Harry Kane adds intrigue as he plays just before the Ballon d’Or ceremony. Though not in peak scoring form lately, Kane remains a threat capable of breaking down Arsenal’s defense. He has netted 15 times against Arsenal in his career—only Leicester City (20) and Everton (16) have conceded more from him.

Arsenal carries some mental baggage at Allianz Arena, having suffered heavy defeats twice and only one win in seven visits, which didn't help them advance in 2012-13 due to away goals.

Prediction:

  • Bayern Munich 1–1 Arsenal

Bayern Munich Likely Starting XI

Vincent Kompany's presence on the bench is uncertain because of a viral infection, so assistant Aaron Danks may handle pre-match duties. Michael Olise is suspended for one match following a red card, likely replaced by Lennart Karl or possibly Serge Gnabry, a former Arsenal player.

Jamal Musiala is out with a muscle injury, and Manuel Neuer’s foot issue means Jonas Urbig, who started against RB Leipzig, could play again in goal.

  • Formation (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Davies; Pavlović, Kimmich; Karl, Gnabry, Díaz; Kane

Arsenal Expected Lineup

Mikel Arteta confirmed Martín Zubimendi is fit but will likely come off the bench. Piero Hincapié should be ready for the weekend game, so Riccardo Calafiori continues at left-back in Munich.

Ezri Konsa fills in for injured William Saliba alongside Gabriel, with Jurrïen Timber expected back replacing Ben White on the right side of defense. Noni Madueke impressed recently and is set to replace Eberechi Eze on the left wing.

  • Formation (4-2-3-1): Raya; Timber, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Guimarães, Rice; Saka, Ødegaard, Madueke; Havertz

Match Details

  • Location: Munich, Germany
  • Stadium: Allianz Arena
  • Date: Wednesday, October 21
  • Kickoff: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
  • Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
  • VAR: Carlos Del Cerro Grande (Spain)

Broadcast Information

  • United States: Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, TUDN.com, Univision NOW, TUDN App, ViX
  • Canada: DAZN Canada, fuboTV Canada
  • Mexico: Max Mexico
  • United Kingdom: TNT Sports 1, HBO Max

Related Articles