Bayern Munich are set to receive a significant boost with the expected return of veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for their crucial Champions League fixture against Arsenal. However, the German giants will be without head coach Vincent Kompany, who missed the final training session due to a viral infection. Assistant coach Aaron Danks stepped in to oversee Tuesday’s preparations as Bayern finalised their squad ahead of the highly anticipated European clash.
Neuer’s Timely Return
The return of Manuel Neuer, 40, is a welcome development for Bayern Munich. The experienced shot-stopper participated fully in the team’s final training session, indicating his readiness to reclaim his spot in the starting XI for the Champions League encounter. Neuer had been sidelined for Bayern’s last two matches due to a foot problem, with young goalkeeper Jonas Urbig deputising during that period. Urbig featured in the recent 3-3 draw with Viking and the emphatic 6-1 victory over RB Leipzig.
Neuer’s path back to fitness saw him resume limited team training on Monday, taking part in a 40-minute session, before fully integrating into the squad on Tuesday. His involvement in the final preparations means his return against Arsenal is highly probable, provided he suffers no further setbacks. Neuer’s leadership and experience between the posts will be a vital asset for Bayern as they navigate a pivotal European fixture against a strong Arsenal side.
Kompany Sidelined by Illness
Head coach Vincent Kompany was a notable absentee from the training ground on Tuesday, as he is currently suffering from a viral infection. In his stead, assistant coach Aaron Danks took charge of the session, guiding the team through their final drills and tactical preparations. Kompany’s absence from the touchline for such a significant Champions League match could present a challenge for Bayern, requiring Danks to step up in a prominent role. An update on the Belgian’s condition is anticipated, but his immediate involvement remains uncertain.
Kimmich and Musiala Updates
Further squad news indicates that influential midfielder Joshua Kimmich also missed Tuesday’s training session. His absence was attributed to private reasons, though the 31-year-old is still expected to be available for selection against Arsenal. This suggests his omission from training was precautionary or unrelated to injury, allowing him to feature in the crucial match.
Conversely, Jamal Musiala remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a thigh problem. His ongoing injury confirms his absence from the upcoming Champions League encounter, meaning Bayern will be without one of their key attacking talents. Musiala’s creative spark and goal threat will be missed as Bayern aim to secure a positive result in their European campaign.