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Bayern Munich could be without manager Vincent Kompany, goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and midfielder Joshua Kimmich for Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Arsenal, raising concerns for the German champions ahead of the crucial fixture.
Bayern assistant coach Aaron Danks disclosed the uncertainty surrounding the trio at a press conference on Tuesday, according to Reuters, explaining that Kompany was battling a virus, Neuer was recovering from a minor injury, while Kimmich missed training for personal reasons.
The potential absences come as Bayern prepare to face Arsenal in a high-profile European contest, with the club yet to determine whether the three key figures will be available for the match.
Kompany battling virus
Danks said Kompany was resting at home after falling ill, adding that the club would assess his condition before deciding whether he could take charge of the team against Arsenal.
“Vince has had a virus, and it is important for him to rest,” Danks said.
He explained that Kompany’s involvement would be assessed on a day-to-day basis, leaving his availability for Wednesday’s match uncertain.
Kompany’s possible absence would be a setback for Bayern’s preparations, with the coaching staff potentially required to oversee the team in his place if the manager fails to recover in time.
Neuer, Kimmich availability uncertain
Meanwhile, Bayern are monitoring Neuer’s fitness after the goalkeeper returned to training over the past two days following a minor injury.
Despite his return, Danks said a final decision had not been made on whether the experienced shot-stopper would be fit to feature against Arsenal.
Kimmich’s participation is also in doubt after the midfielder missed training for personal reasons. The club has yet to provide certainty over his availability for the Champions League fixture.
Bayern will also be without winger Michael Olise, who is suspended for the encounter, further limiting the options available to the German side.
The possible absence of Neuer, Kimmich and Olise could affect Bayern in key areas, while uncertainty over Kompany’s involvement adds another complication to their preparations.
Bayern seek response after draw
Despite the fitness concerns, Bayern head into the match following an emphatic 6-1 victory over RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga on Saturday.
The result offers encouragement for the German champions as they prepare to face Arsenal, although they will be keen to improve on their European performance last week.
Bayern were held to a 3-3 draw by Viking in Norway in their previous Champions League outing, a result that left them seeking a stronger performance against the English side.
The encounter against Arsenal will therefore provide an opportunity for Bayern to respond, although the availability of their key personnel could influence their approach to the game.
Danks warns of fine margins
Danks said the contest would be decided by fine margins, stressing the importance of thorough preparation and a fearless approach from the players.
He indicated that Bayern would need to prepare for every aspect of the encounter, with the coaching staff focused on ensuring the team could cope with the challenges posed by Arsenal.
With several key figures facing late fitness assessments, Bayern’s preparations are expected to continue until decisions are made on their availability.
The German champions will hope to have as many of their important personnel as possible available as they seek a positive result against Arsenal in the Champions League.
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