UCL: Kimmich Ruled Out Of Bayern vs Arsenal After Family Bereavement
Retold by Oddsrama · 21 October 2026
Bayern Munich will take on Arsenal in the Champions League league phase without captain Joshua Kimmich on Wednesday in Munich. The German side confirmed that Kimmich has withdrawn from the squad following a bereavement in his immediate family. Bayern's statement respectfully asked for privacy to be granted to the player and his family during this difficult time, with the club rallying behind him.
It's not just Kimmich's absence that could shake Bayern's setup ahead of the clash with the Premier League champions. Head coach Vincent Kompany is battling a viral infection that has caused him physical discomfort, particularly affecting his legs. He spent Tuesday recovering at home while assistant Aaron Danks stepped in to handle team media responsibilities. While Kompany's status for the match remained uncertain, the coaching staff emphasized the importance of rest and recovery, though Danks noted that getting the boss to slow down is easier said than done.
For betting purposes, this double blow to Bayern's leadership presents an intriguing angle. Kimmich's absence removes a key defensive presence and experienced voice from midfield—Arsenal will fancy their chances to exploit that gap, especially given their current league form. Kompany's potential absence adds another layer of uncertainty; if he can't be on the touchline, it could affect Bayern's tactical coherence and decision-making during a high-stakes European fixture. Arsenal's odds may well shorten depending on how the betting markets price in these absences, so keep an eye on team news closer to kickoff.
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