Why Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise aren’t playing for Bayern Munich against Arsenal

Arsenal face their sternest test of the season so far against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

The German giants have made a typically formidable start to the new season and are unbeaten in 10 matches in all competitions.

Vincent Kompany’s side will, however, be without two key players at the Allianz Arena this evening with both Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise absent.

The club captain skipped training on Tuesday and is set to be omitted from the matchday squad following the death of his father, Thomas, according to Bild.

Olise, meanwhile, is serving a one-game suspension after he was sent-off during Bayern’s 3-3 draw against Viking last week.

His place in the starting line-upis set to be taken by former Arsenal winger Serge Gnabry who spoke in glowing terms of his former club in yesterday’s pre-match press conference.

‘It’s always a special game against a former club,’ he said. ‘I grew up there and I’m really looking forward to it.

‘We last played at the Emirates. It’s a bit strange to play against a coach you used to play with. We want to win, that’s what it’s all about. I’m looking forward to the game.’

On his former teammate Mikel Arteta, he added: ‘He was a leader in the team back then, also our captain. He talked a lot with young players like me and Hector Bellerin and always had an open ear for us.

‘That shows what kind of personality he has. He led the team to this great success last season. He’s doing a very good job.’

Bayern boss Vincent Kompany, too, is unlikely to be on the sidelines this evening due to illness.

‘It has affected his legs at times, he found some pain in his legs,’ revealed Bayern assistant Aaron Danks.

‘It’s just a virus. The doctors know way more than I do. The most important thing is that he rests and takes the time he needs.

‘I don’t know whether that will be tomorrow or 2-3 days. We’re taking it day by day.’