Bayern Munich Key Star Ruled out of Arsenal Champions League Clash

According to a report by London Evening Standard on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Bayern Munich have confirmed that Joshua Kimmich will miss their Champions League showdown against Arsenal following a bereavement in his immediate family.

The German midfielder was absent from training ahead of Wednesday night’s highly anticipated league-phase encounter at the Allianz Arena.

The Bundesliga champions initially reported that Kimmich was unavailable for private reasons. However, the club subsequently confirmed the circumstances behind his absence and asked for his family’s privacy to be respected.

In an official statement, Bayern explained that Kimmich would not be included in the squad because of a death in his immediate family. The club also expressed its deepest condolences to the midfielder and his loved ones.

The 31-year-old’s absence represents a significant setback for Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany. Kimmich has remained an important figure in the team’s starting lineup this season. His versatility also allows him to operate effectively in central midfield or at right-back.

Since joining Bayern from RB Leipzig in 2015, Kimmich has made 504 appearances across all competitions. He has also collected numerous major honours, including the Champions League trophy and 10 Bundesliga titles.

At international level, the midfielder has earned 114 senior caps for Germany. He ranks as the country’s ninth most-capped men’s player of all time.

Bayern will also be without Michael Olise, who is suspended for the Arsenal encounter after receiving two yellow cards during their dramatic 3-3 draw against Viking FK earlier this month.

Meanwhile, Jamal Musiala remains unavailable because of a thigh injury. However, captain Manuel Neuer is expected to return after missing Saturday’s 6-1 victory over RB Leipzig with a foot problem. Centre-back Kim Min-jae is also available despite being substituted during that match.

Lennart Karl is expected to replace Olise, although former Arsenal winger Serge Gnabry is another option. Tom Bischof could fill Kimmich’s position in midfield alongside Aleksandar Pavlovic.

Kompany’s availability had also been uncertain because of a viral infection affecting his legs. However, reports indicated that the Belgian attended Bayern’s pre-match activities on Wednesday, suggesting he could take his place on the touchline against Arsenal.

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