Bayern Munich vs Arsenal: Preview, Prediction & Lineups

The Champions League action continues with a high-profile match in Munich, following the intense PSG vs Barcelona showdown earlier this week. Bayern Munich are set to challenge Arsenal, who have maintained an impressive winning streak in the group stage.

Having reached the semifinals last season, both clubs bring recent experience and determination. Their 2023–24 quarterfinal meeting saw Bayern advance on a 3–2 aggregate score, while Arsenal claimed a 3–1 victory at Emirates Stadium during the previous group phase.

Bayern boasts six European titles, whereas Arsenal, despite their strong run under Mikel Arteta since returning to this competition, have yet to secure the trophy. Their recent league wins over Napoli and Lille reflect their solid form, contrasting with Bayern’s mixed results after a draw with Viking and a commanding win against Bodø/Glimt.

Match Prediction: A Tactical Battle Ending in a Draw

The contest pits Bayern’s prolific attack against Arsenal’s resilient defense. The Gunners have not conceded a goal in this tournament yet, while Bayern has scored 36 goals in their last 10 games, including seven across the first two group matches.

Arsenal demonstrated their defensive strength in the final against PSG, suggesting they can contain Bayern’s offense. How Arteta sets his side up will be key, especially considering Arsenal’s ability to control the game in hostile environments. An early setback could challenge their confidence.

Harry Kane adds intrigue, as this match precedes the Ballon d’Or ceremony where he is a nominee. Though not as prolific this season's start, Kane remains a threat capable of breaking down Arsenal’s defense. He has netted 15 goals against the Gunners, ranking only behind his tallies against Leicester City (20) and Everton (16).

Arsenal’s history at Allianz Arena includes tough defeats, suffering two 5–1 losses. Their sole victory in seven visits failed to prevent elimination on away goals in 2012–13, so mental hurdles remain.

Prediction: Bayern Munich 1–1 Arsenal

Projected Lineups

Goalkeeper: Neuer
Defenders: Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Davies
Midfielders: Pavlović, Kimmich
Attacking Midfielders: Karl, Gnabry, Díaz
Forward: Kane

Questions surround Vincent Kompany's presence on the bench due to illness; assistant Aaron Danks may lead from the sidelines. Michael Olise faces suspension following a red card, likely replaced by Lennart Karl or possibly Serge Gnabry. Jamal Musiala is sidelined with a muscle injury, and Manuel Neuer’s fitness is uncertain after a foot problem, with Jonas Urbig a potential starter in goal.

Goalkeeper: Raya
Defenders: Timber, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori
Midfielders: Guimarães, Rice
Attacking Midfielders: Saka, Ødegaard, Madueke
Forward: Havertz

Mikel Arteta confirmed Martín Zubimendi is back but will likely come off the bench. Piero Hincapié is expected to be fit for the weekend’s match. Riccardo Calafiori holds his spot at left back. Ezri Konsa covers for injured William Saliba alongside Gabriel, with Jurrïen Timber returning in place of Ben White. Noni Madueke earned his place after scoring in the recent win, replacing Eberechi Eze.

Match Details

Location: Munich, Germany
Stadium: Allianz Arena
Date: Wednesday, October 21
Kickoff Time: 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