Bayern Munich Face Arsenal Test Without Suspended Michael Olise

Bayern Munich will face a major test of their UEFA Champions League ambitions when they host Arsenal on Wednesday, with influential winger Michael Olise unavailable through suspension.

Olise was sent off during Bayern’s 3-3 draw with Viking last week after receiving two yellow cards within a minute. Following a booking for a foul, the winger reacted to verbal provocation from Viking captain Zlatko Tripic by throwing the ball at his head, resulting in the first dismissal of his career, according to the report.

The former Crystal Palace star has maintained his impressive form this season, recording nine goals and five assists in 10 appearances across all competitions for the German champions. His absence is a significant setback for Bayern, particularly with Jamal Musiala struggling with injury and illness, while Serge Gnabry and Lennart Karl have yet to reach their best form.

Harry Kane has also played a central role in Bayern’s attacking success. The England captain has registered nine goals and six assists in 10 games this season. During the draw against Viking, Kane helped inspire a comeback from a two-goal deficit, scoring twice and providing another assist.

Speaking after Bayern’s 6-1 Bundesliga victory over RB Leipzig on Saturday, Kane acknowledged the impact Olise’s absence could have but insisted that other players must seize the opportunity to contribute.

“Missing one of your biggest players, you’re going to feel it for sure, but that’s where other people have to step up and show they can take their opportunity,” Kane said.

Bayern also received a boost from Luis Diaz, who delivered an outstanding performance against Leipzig. The Colombian winger scored three goals and supplied an assist, offering an encouraging response after a difficult start to the season following his reported move from Liverpool in 2025.

Arsenal, meanwhile, arrive in Germany in strong form, having won 10 of their 11 matches in all competitions, according to the report. Mikel Arteta’s side will be looking to build on that momentum after last season’s painful penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Kane, who previously played for Tottenham Hotspur, is familiar with Arsenal and expects a demanding contest. Bayern were eliminated by Arsenal in the 2023-24 quarter-finals before beating the London club 3-1 in last season’s Champions League league phase. The striker said Bayern were eager to test themselves against one of Europe’s leading teams, with the home crowd expected to play an important role.