Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered significant team news ahead of the crucial Champions League encounter against German giants Bayern Munich at Emirates Stadium.
Returning Stars Boost Arsenal Squad
The Gunners received positive news as three key players are set to return to the squad for the top-of-the-table European clash. Arteta confirmed that Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli have rejoined the squad after appearing on the bench during the recent Tottenham match and are now in contention to feature against Bayern.
There's more encouraging news for Arsenal fans as captain Martin Odegaard could also make his return. "They are, and we're going to have a meeting now to decide on Martin. He was very close for the previous game, so we are hopeful that tomorrow he can be in the squad as well," Arteta told Arsenal.com.
Significant Absences for Crucial Match
However, the North London club will face the German champions without two important attacking players. Both Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz remain unavailable as they continue their recovery from injuries, though Arteta provided an optimistic update on their progress.
"Really good, both of them. In the next few days, they're going to have a repeat scan to see how everything is and where we can push them for the weekend," the Spanish manager added, suggesting both players could return for the upcoming Premier League match against Chelsea.
The injury situation worsens for Arsenal with the Brazilian duo of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Magalhaes facing extended periods on the sidelines. Jesus is dealing with an anterior cruciate ligament injury while Magalhaes struggles with a groin problem, making them long-term absentees.
High-Stakes Champions League Encounter
This match represents a crucial showdown in the 2025/26 Champions League group stage, with both Arsenal and Bayern Munich among the three teams that have maintained perfect records this season, alongside Inter Milan.
Arsenal's impressive defensive record in the competition, having conceded no goals so far, faces its toughest test against a Bayern Munich side that has scored in every match this season. Historical statistics from Transfermarkt show Bayern holds the advantage in previous encounters, with eight wins compared to Arsenal's three, while three matches have ended in draws.
Bayern Munich also faces selection challenges, with Luis Diaz suspended following his red card against Paris Saint-Germain, while Serge Gnabry, Lennart Karl, and Jamal Musiala remain doubtful for the London trip.
The match takes on added significance as a supercomputer prediction recently tipped Arsenal to win their first-ever Champions League title this season, potentially achieving a historic Premier League and Champions League double.
