Bayern Munich and Arsenal face high-profile Champions League test at Allianz Arena

Bayern Munich host Arsenal at the Allianz Arena in one of the most eagerly anticipated fixtures of this phase of the Champions League league phase, with both sides aiming to strengthen their position in the race for the top eight.

Bayern Munich will look to respond in front of their home supporters after a frustrating run in recent weeks. They face an Arsenal side arriving with confidence, setting up a closely balanced contest that kicks off at 19:00 GMT.

Both managers must also cope with significant absences. Michael Olise is unavailable for Bayern Munich, while Arsenal will be without William Saliba in defence. Their respective absences are expected to force changes to the way both teams approach the match.

The European league-phase format leaves little room for error, with every dropped point potentially damaging ambitions of finishing in the top eight. The meeting at Allianz Arena is therefore likely to be shaped by tactical decisions, with a single technical mistake capable of deciding the outcome.