Bayern Munich vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups
Following the intense PSG vs Barcelona match on Tuesday, another major showdown is set for Wednesday in Munich as Bayern Munich hosts Arsenal. Both sides are chasing the top prize currently held by Paris Saint-Germain, who demonstrated their strength with recent wins over Manchester City and Barcelona.
Last season, Bayern edged Arsenal 3-2 on aggregate in the quarterfinals, but Arsenal gained revenge with a 3-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium during the group stage. While Bayern has six European titles, Arsenal is still chasing their first, having come close in Budapest recently. Their progress since Mikel Arteta's return indicates this could be their breakthrough year.
Arsenal has started the 2026–27 Champions League group stage strongly, defeating Napoli and Lille comfortably. Bayern had a tougher time after an initial big win against Bodø/Glimt was followed by a draw with Viking.
Score Prediction: A Tight Draw Expected
The matchup pits Bayern’s potent attack against Arsenal’s solid defense. Arsenal remains unbeaten defensively in the competition, while Bayern has scored 36 goals in their last 10 matches, including seven in two games this group stage. Arsenal showed in the final against PSG they can stifle top teams, so backing their defense to hold firm seems reasonable.
Mikel Arteta’s tactics will be fascinating to watch. Arsenal is capable of controlling the game even in hostile environments like the Allianz Arena, but an early goal conceded could unsettle them.
Harry Kane adds intrigue, playing his second-last match before the Ballon d’Or ceremony. Though not as prolific early this season, Kane’s ability to break down defenses is well known; he has netted 15 times against Arsenal in his career, behind only Leicester City (20) and Everton (16).
Arsenal’s history at the Allianz Arena isn’t great. They have suffered two heavy 5-1 defeats here and only one win in seven visits, which wasn’t enough to progress past the group stage in 2012–13.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 1–1 Arsenal
Bayern Munich Likely Lineup
Head coach Vincent Kompany might miss the match due to a viral infection, with assistant Aaron Danks handling media duties. Kompany may still choose the lineup remotely. Michael Olise is suspended following a red card last week, so Lennart Karl or former Arsenal player Serge Gnabry could fill the spot.
Jamal Musiala is sidelined with a muscle injury. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has a foot problem; Jonas Urbig started against RB Leipzig and may start again if Neuer isn't fit.
- 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 likely to come off the bench. Piero Hincapié should be available soon but not for this match. Riccardo Calafiori will continue at left back.
Ezri Konsa covers for injured William Saliba alongside Gabriel. Jurrïen Timber returns to replace Ben White on the right. Noni Madueke earned his place after scoring in the win at Nottingham Forest, replacing 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, Oct. 21
- Kickoff Time: 8 p.m. BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
- Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
- VAR Official: 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
