Bayern Munich will be without Michael Olise, Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala when they host Arsenal in the Champions League at the Allianz Arena tonight. Manager Vincent Kompany is also struggling with a virus.
The reigning Bundesliga champions face the Premier League champions in a league phase clash that kicks off at 8pm BST. You can watch it live on TNT Sports.
Three key players are unavailable
The biggest blow is the loss of Olise, who is suspended for one match after being sent off against Viking in Bayern’s previous game. The former Crystal Palace winger has trained with his team-mates this week, but the ban rules him out.
Kimmich will also be missing. Bayern have confirmed they will not include him in their squad after a family bereavement.
Musiala is still out with a thigh tear, which he suffered on international duty with Germany in September. He will miss another week or so, having already spent around a month on the sidelines.
Neuer set to return
There is better news in goal. Captain Manuel Neuer was seen in action during training and is set to return after a period on the sidelines with a foot complaint. The 40-year-old’s recent absence has allowed Jonas Urbig to enjoy a spell between the sticks. The veteran is expected to reclaim his place in tonight’s match.
How Bayern could line up
Bayern are favourites to play a 4-2-3-1 formation. Konrad Laimer in the right-back slot in front of Neuer and Alphonso Davies on the left ahead of Nathaniel Brown. Dayot Upamecano and Jonathan Tah should form the central defensive line.
Without Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlovic could be partnered in midfield by Tom Bischof. Ismael Saibari played at number 10 the last time out and is poised to continue in the same position. Lennart Karl is the likely backup for Olise on the right flank. Luis Diaz is set to join up with Harry Kane in the attack.
Bayern will hope their strength in depth can cover the gaps against an Arsenal side who arrive in Bavaria as the champions of England.
Comments.
Loading comments…