In what could be a decisive game in their bid to reach another Champions League final, Arsenal are boosted by having England international Bukayo Saka in the starting line-up against Bayern Munich.
Saka appears to have been troubled by injuries of late, but Mikel Arteta clearly feels that he’s ready for the challenge against the soon to be deposed Bundesliga champions.
Thomas Tuchel’s side are on a hiding to nothing having lost at the weekend to minnows, Heidenheim.
Saka starts for Arsenal against Bayern Munich
It means that Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen can win the title with just one more victory between now and the end of the season.
Harry Kane and Eric Dier return to North London and both will surely be hoping that they’re able to make a mark.
? Bukayo Saka starts for Arsenal, back in the starting XI. Eric Dier with de Ligt for Bayern.
?? Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
?? Neuer; Kimmich, Dier, de Ligt, Davies; Goretzka, Laimer; Gnabry, Musiala, Sane; Kane. pic.twitter.com/5eyzBCDKMu
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 9, 2024
It’s a big ask given Arsenal’s current form, and with a full-to-bursting Emirates Stadium behind them, this could be a famous night for the Gunners.
David Raya keeps his spot in goal, and Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel and Jakub Kiwior are tasked with stopping the Bavarians from being the first away side to score at the ground in the Champions League this season.
Jorginho will anchor the midfield to allow Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard to wreak some havoc further up the pitch, whilst Saka will be joined by the in-form duo of Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz.
It was the latter of course that won Chelsea the Champions League whilst Tuchel was in charge at Stamford Bridge, adding another piece of narrative to what’s sure to be an absorbing encounter.