Arsenal 32-year-old Returns from Injury Ahead of Bayern Munich Clash

According to a report by London Evening Standard on Tuesday October 20, 2026, Arsenal have received a positive injury update ahead of their UEFA Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich after Kepa Arrizabalaga returned to full training.

The goalkeeper missed Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest because of a minor injury, but he has now rejoined the squad ahead of Wednesday’s European fixture.

Kepa picked up the problem during preparations for the Forest encounter and was subsequently left out of the matchday squad. Arsenal included Illan Meslier among the substitutes as cover for first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.

However, the Spaniard’s recovery has progressed well, allowing him to return to full training on Tuesday. His availability provides Mikel Arteta with another experienced option as Arsenal prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.

The injury appears to have been relatively minor, with Kepa missing only one match. His return also restores Arsenal’s usual depth in the goalkeeping department, although the manager must still assess his readiness before confirming the squad for the Bayern Munich encounter.

Arteta is expected to address the latest injury developments during his press conference in Germany on Tuesday evening. That update should provide further clarity on whether Kepa will travel with the team and be available for selection.

Arsenal face Bayern Munich at 8pm UK time on Wednesday in the Champions League. The Gunners will then return to domestic action against Everton on Saturday, giving the coaching staff another fixture to consider when managing the squad.

Kepa’s return is an encouraging development for Arsenal as they prepare for two important matches in quick succession. His experience could prove valuable if Arteta needs to rotate his goalkeeping options during the busy schedule.

Meanwhile, Piero Hincapie has also returned to training after missing the victory over Nottingham Forest with an ankle injury. His return offers another boost to Arsenal’s preparations, although the availability of other players still recovering from injuries remains a concern.

With Kepa back in full training, Arsenal will now focus on completing their preparations for Bayern Munich. The final decision on his involvement will depend on the coaching staff’s assessment ahead of Wednesday’s encounter.

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