Arsenal visit Bayern in Champions League with Olise suspended for hosts

Arsenal face their toughest Champions League test of the season so far on Wednesday night when they visit Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

The Gunners arrive in Germany on the back of a 3-0 win over Lille in their previous European outing. Bayern, by contrast, dropped points last time out, drawing 3-3 with Norwegian side Viking.

For Nigerian fans who follow the Premier League closely, the match is a chance to see how Mikel Arteta's side measure up against one of Europe's traditional heavyweights.

Bayern missing key men

Bayern will be without Michael Olise, who is suspended after picking up two yellow cards in the space of a minute against Viking. He was first booked for a foul, then sent off for throwing the ball at Viking captain Zlatko Tripic after the two exchanged words. It was the first red card of his career.

The London-born winger, who came through Arsenal's youth setup, has been in fine form this season with nine goals and five assists in 10 games across all competitions. His absence leaves a gap in Bayern's attack.

Jamal Musiala is also unavailable as he struggles with injury and illness. Bayern could be without coach Vincent Kompany, who assistant Aaron Danks said is recovering from a viral infection. Decisions on goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and midfielder Joshua Kimmich will be taken before kick-off.

Harry Kane, who has nine goals and six assists this term, is expected to lead the line. The England captain said losing Olise would be felt. "Missing one of your biggest players, you're going to feel it for sure, but that's where other people have to step up," he said after Bayern's 6-1 win over RB Leipzig on Saturday.

Luis Diaz could also feature after his hat-trick against Leipzig, one of his best displays since joining from Liverpool in 2025.

Arsenal's strong run

Arsenal have won 10 of their 11 matches in all competitions this season and will want to keep that momentum going in Europe. They beat Bayern 3-1 in last season's league phase, though Bayern knocked them out in the 2023-24 quarter-finals.

Arteta will be looking for more from his attack after a narrow win over Nottingham Forest, while goalkeeper David Raya has defended the team's style of play amid criticism.

Kane, who left Tottenham for Bayern in 2023, said he had not had much time to message his Arsenal friends because of the packed schedule. "It's a big game and we're playing against one of the best teams in Europe, you have to always enjoy these occasions," he said.

What happens next: The result will shape both clubs' push for a top finish in the league phase. Arsenal will want to show they can win away against elite opposition, while Bayern will be eager to avoid another slip-up in front of their home fans.