Serge Gnabry backs Mikel Arteta’s leadership ahead of Bayern Munich’s Champions League clash with Arsenal

Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry says Mikel Arteta’s success as Arsenal manager comes as little surprise, recalling how the Spaniard established himself as a leader during their time together at the north London club.

Gnabry will face his former club when Bayern host Arsenal at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday in the UEFA Champions League, renewing acquaintances with Arteta, who captained the Gunners during the season they shared at the Emirates Stadium.

The Germany international, who began his senior club career at Arsenal, believes Arteta’s leadership qualities were evident long before he moved into management.

“He was certainly a leader within our team back then. He was the captain during the season we played together,” Gnabry told reporters on Tuesday.

“I remember him helping us out. He shared a lot of advice with us. He was always very approachable and open.”

The Bayern forward acknowledged that Arteta has developed considerably since their playing days, praising the work he has done in establishing Arsenal as a competitive force under his management.

“That just goes to show what a kind person he is. He led the team to great success. It’s not that we saw it coming, but he’s clearly developed further and has done a fantastic job.”

Gnabry prepares for emotional Arsenal reunion

Wednesday’s encounter carries personal significance for Gnabry, who joined Arsenal as a teenager and spent several formative years at the club before continuing his career elsewhere.

The 31-year-old admitted that facing a former teammate in the Champions League was an unusual experience, particularly given his connection to the English side.

“It’s strange, of course, to play against a team coached by a former teammate,” he said.

“It’s a special match for me – playing against my former club.

“The club where I spent many years, I grew up there from the age of 16.”

Gnabry’s comments highlight the personal dimension of a fixture that will also carry significant sporting importance for both sides as they meet in Europe’s premier club competition.

While the German winger will be focused on helping Bayern secure a positive result on home soil, his reunion with Arsenal provides an opportunity to reflect on the club that helped shape his early professional career.

Kompany’s illness raises questions over Bayern dugout

Bayern could be without head coach Vincent Kompany on the touchline after the Belgian was struck down by a virus ahead of the Champions League encounter.

Assistant coach Aaron Danks addressed the media on Tuesday and could take charge of the team on Wednesday if Kompany is unable to recover in time.

Danks, however, insisted that any absence would not change Bayern’s collective approach, stressing that the club’s success must remain more important than individual recognition.

“I think it’s always Bayern Munich’s victory. I know Vince would be really strong on this; it’s never about anybody’s individual achievements, it’s always about the collective, about the group,” he said.

“When you come to work with a club like Bayern Munich, you know it’s much bigger than all of us.”

Kompany was present on the touchline during Bayern’s 6-1 Bundesliga victory over RB Leipzig on Saturday, but appeared to be struggling physically. He had difficulty walking and subsequently missed the post-match press conference.

Danks ready to step in as Kompany rests

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Kompany’s availability, Danks played down the potential disruption, explaining that he already takes significant responsibility for the team’s daily training work.

“For me, not too much changes,” he said.

“I plan the training sessions every day, and I take quite a lead on the grass. Obviously, when Vincent’s not with us, we miss him, we miss having him around…”

Danks also emphasised the importance of ensuring Kompany gets sufficient rest, acknowledging the difficulty of keeping the demanding Bayern manager away from his duties.

“You have to really get him to rest, but it’s a challenge. You know him as a person; he’s a real leader, he works hard, so it’s important that he rests.”

Bayern will now assess Kompany’s condition before deciding who leads the team against Arsenal, with Danks prepared to step in if required.