Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry stated that he is not surprised by Mikel Arteta's success as a manager, according to Asharq Al-Awsat. The German international recalled his time as a teammate of the Arsenal boss, noting that Arteta served as the team captain during the season they played together. Gnabry emphasized that Arteta was always approachable and open with the squad, sharing advice and helping younger players develop. He added that Arteta led the team to significant success and has continued to develop effectively in his coaching career.
The 31-year-old described the upcoming Champions League match at the Allianz Arena as a special occasion, as he will face the club where he began his professional career at age 16. While acknowledging that facing a former teammate as a coach feels strange, Gnabry expressed enthusiasm for the encounter. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, providing a significant reunion for the players involved.
Bayern Munich enters the fixture with several squad concerns, as reported by Asharq Al-Awsat. The team is already without suspended winger Michael Olise and injured midfielder Jamal Musiala. Additionally, there are doubts surrounding the availability of the head coach, the team captain, and a key midfielder. The manager is battling a virus that may keep him out of the dugout, while the captain is recovering from an injury. The midfielder, who would serve as captain in the leader's absence, missed the previous day's training session for personal reasons.
English assistant coach Aaron Danks conducted the previous day's media session and could step in for the head coach on matchday. Danks noted that the team's focus remains on collective achievement rather than individual narratives. He explained that while the absence of the head coach is felt, the coaching staff maintains a consistent approach to daily training. Danks highlighted that the manager is a hard worker and a leader, making his rest essential for the team's long-term performance. The Bayern squad aims to maintain their focus on the group dynamic despite the personnel uncertainties.