The tie is still very much in the balance, despite the fact that some may contend that the Gunners lost the first leg against Bayern in a 2-2 draw.

It is Arsenal’s first Premier League match since 2024, and although Bayern has one more day off, they should be happy that Bayer Leverkusen is now the official Bundesliga champion.

If there are no injuries, this is the starting lineup that Arteta might select for the Gunners on Wednesday.

Arsenal lined up against Bayern Munich as predicted (4-3-3)

Last Tuesday, Bukayo Saka curled Arsenal ahead / Sebastian Frej/MB Media/GettyImages
GK: David Raya Arsenal’s formidable defense has faltered in recent games, so you have a feeling that if the Gunners are to advance, their goalie will need to put on a heroic display on Wednesday.

Ben White, RB Although the Englishman has been a shining example of consistency in 2024, he had a difficult game on Sunday. To what extent will Arsenal regret his first-leg error?

William Saliba, CB: Under the intense European lights, Saliba has shown a few nerves thus far. For him, this is a crucial game. 

Gabriel, CB Even though Harry Kane gave Bayern Munich a strong performance last week, the Brazilian seemed reluctant to follow him around. Gabriel’s box defense will be emphasized in Munich.

LB: Takehiro Tomiyasu – After his performance against Aston Villa, Oleksandr Zinchenko is unlikely to start, and Leroy Sane handled Jakub Kiwior like a washing machine the previous week. It’s Tomiyasu time.

Jorginho, the CM Arsenal’s pressing structure suffered on Sunday due to Jorginho’s absence. Arteta has a habit of turning to the seasoned Italian player when things get tight.

Declan Rice, CM Although Rice will likely play much more closely to the Italian than he did in the first match, Jorginho should release him once more.

CM: Odegaard Martin Prior to the second leg, Odegaard had a few minor concerns after being pushed out on Sunday. However, after being noticed on Tuesday during practise, the skipper is almost guaranteed to start.

RW: Bukayo Saka – Saka provided Arsenal the perfect start at the Emirates, but Saka will face a different challenge on Wednesday with Alphonso Davies sidelined by suspension.

 

ST: Kai Havertz Havertz, who began the weekend in a deeper position, will rejoin the front lines once he is back in his native country. 
Gabriel Martinelli, left-wing This is Martinelli’s game. In the second leg, Arsenal will require the very best play from the Brazilian, as they are ready to contain and counter.