Bayern Munich vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Predictions, and Lineups

After a thrilling match between PSG and Barcelona earlier this week, another major showdown is set in Munich as Bayern Munich take on Arsenal. Both teams are chasing the crown held by Paris Saint-Germain, who have shown their strength by beating Manchester City and Barcelona recently.

These two sides last met in the quarterfinals of the 2023–24 Champions League, where Bayern edged through with a 3–2 aggregate. Arsenal, however, got the better of them during the previous season's group stage, winning 3–1 at home.

Bayern boasts six European titles, while Arsenal has yet to lift the trophy despite coming close in Budapest. Since returning to Europe’s top competition under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's progress hints that this could be their breakthrough year.

Arsenal started the 2026–27 group stage strongly, defeating Napoli and Lille with ease. Bayern, on the other hand, cruised past Bodø/Glimt before being held by Viking last week.

Score Prediction: A Tight Battle Ending in a Draw

It’s a contest between Bayern's prolific attack and Arsenal’s solid defense. Arsenal haven’t conceded a goal in this season’s tournament so far, whereas Bayern has scored 36 times over their last 10 matches, including seven goals in the first two group games.

In the final against PSG, Arsenal demonstrated they can neutralize any offense. Generally, a strong defense tends to prevail over an aggressive attack in these encounters.

Mikel Arteta’s game plan will be intriguing. Arsenal are capable of controlling Bayern and imposing their style even in intimidating venues like the Allianz Arena. Still, an early goal against them might undermine their confidence.

Harry Kane’s Role: Kane will play one of his final matches before the Ballon d’Or ceremony, aiming for soccer’s top individual award. Although his scoring has been quieter than usual this season, he remains the key threat to Arsenal’s defense. Kane has netted 15 times against Arsenal in his career, with only Leicester City (20) and Everton (16) seeing him score more.

Arsenal’s History at Allianz Arena: The Gunners hold some tough memories here, having suffered two heavy 5–1 defeats. Their sole win in seven visits wasn’t enough to prevent elimination in the 2012–13 Champions League on away goals.

Match Prediction

• Bayern Munich 1–1 Arsenal

Bayern Munich Expected Lineup

There is uncertainty about whether Vincent Kompany will manage from the sidelines due to a viral infection. Assistant Aaron Danks has handled pre-match duties, but Kompany may still choose the squad remotely.

Michael Olise misses out following a red card suspension. Lennart Karl is the likely replacement, though Serge Gnabry, a former Arsenal player, could be an option.

Jamal Musiala is sidelined with a muscle injury. Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is recovering from a foot problem; Jonas Urbig, who started in the recent big win over RB Leipzig, might start again if Neuer isn’t fit.

• Formation (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Davies; Pavlović, Kimmich; Karl, Gnabry, Díaz; Kane

Arsenal Projected Starting XI

Mikel Arteta confirmed Martín Zubimendi is back to fitness but likely to come off the bench. Piero Hincapié is expected to be ready for the weekend game versus Everton. Riccardo Calafiori continues at left-back.

Ezri Konsa deputizes for William Saliba alongside Gabriel. Jurrïen Timber is set to return on the right side of defense, replacing Ben White.

Noni Madueke earned his spot after scoring Arsenal’s only shot on target in their 1–0 victory over Nottingham Forest. He will start on the left wing in place of Eberechi Eze.

• 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, October 21
• Kickoff: 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