Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a major boost to Gunners fans by confirming that captain Martin Odegaard could return from injury for Wednesday's crucial Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium.
Team News: Odegaard's Timely Return
The Norwegian midfielder, who has been sidelined since October with a knee problem, has returned to training and is in contention to feature against the German champions. Arteta revealed this positive development during his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
"He was very close for the previous game so we are hopeful that tomorrow he can be in the squad," the Spanish tactician told reporters. Odegaard's potential return comes at a perfect time for Arsenal, who are aiming to secure their fifth consecutive Champions League victory this season.
North London Momentum Meets European Test
Arsenal enter this highly anticipated match riding high on confidence after their emphatic 4-1 demolition of Tottenham in the North London derby on Sunday. Arteta emphasized the importance of carrying that performance into the European arena.
"We have to make sure that we carry that energy tomorrow again to the stadium, to each individual and play with the same dominance, aggression, and efficiency against a top side," Arteta stated. "This is the kind of game in the competition that we want to face and we've been very consistent."
The match pits the top two teams in the Champions League table against each other, with Arsenal looking to strengthen their position in the race for the last 16. Despite their domestic success where they lead the Premier League by six points, Arteta recognizes the threat posed by Bayern.
"Tomorrow is a great test for us to see where we are," he admitted. "Every opponent brings different challenges. Obviously they are in a great moment. The level of consistency they show in results, performances, in every metric that they have is very, very impressive."
The Harry Kane Challenge
One of the biggest threats Arsenal faces comes from former Tottenham striker Harry Kane, who has an impressive record against the Gunners. The England captain has scored 15 goals in 21 appearances against Arsenal, including one for Bayern at the Emirates in their 2024 quarter-final first leg.
Kane has started the season in spectacular form for Bayern, netting 24 goals in 18 games across all competitions. The German giants remain unbeaten this campaign with 17 wins and one draw from their 18 matches.
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber acknowledged the challenge of containing Kane but expressed excitement about the opportunity. "I think he's an amazing striker. Everyone knows that," the Dutchman said. "He has so many qualities. He's been doing it for such a long time already and now at Bayern Munich, he's one of the best players in the world. So it's going to be a nice challenge for us as a team, and as defenders, to stop him tomorrow."
Meanwhile, Kane praised Arsenal's development since his departure from England, noting that "They've gained experience in the Champions League, which has made them better and helped them grow." The striker also hinted at extending his stay in Germany beyond 2027, describing his move to Bayern as "one of the best decisions in my life."
With Arsenal yet to concede in the Champions League this season and Bayern's formidable attacking prowess led by Kane, Wednesday's encounter promises to be a thrilling tactical battle between two of Europe's in-form teams.
