Bayern confirm Musiala out of Arsenal clash as Neuer fitness goes down to the wire

Neuer's availability hangs in the balance

Manuel Neuer is a doubt for Bayern Munich's Champions League clash with Arsenal on Wednesday after fresh concerns emerged over the veteran goalkeeper's fitness.

The 40-year-old has missed Bayern's last two games against Viking FK and RB Leipzig. The initial plan was for Neuer to sit out the 6-1 win over Leipzig to ensure he was fit for Wednesday's match against Arsenal, with Jonas Urbig making his second consecutive start in goal.

However, fresh worries have surfaced ahead of the European tie in Munich. "There was simply a little fluid in his foot. He wasn't ready for today yet. We'll see whether he'll be ready by Wednesday," Bayern board member for sport Max Eberl said on Saturday, according to Bild.

If Neuer is unable to return to team training early next week, Urbig will once again replace him against Arsenal.

Musiala definitely ruled out

Jamal Musiala will certainly miss the game against Arsenal as he continues his recovery from the thigh injury he suffered during the international break.

"I don't think he'll be ready in time for Arsenal. He's now gradually being eased back in, but he will return during October," Eberl said of Musiala.

How Bayern got here

Neuer's absence follows a frustrating 2-2 draw at Augsburg on 12 October 2026, where his clearance was charged down by Robin Fellhauer, who scored after just 8.4 seconds — the fastest goal in Bundesliga history. Ahead of the RB Leipzig fixture, head coach Vincent Kompany admitted on 16 October 2026 that the keeper's availability would "go down to the wire."

With Neuer sidelined, Urbig answered the call in a 6-1 rout of Leipzig in which Lucho Díaz scored three and Harry Kane continued his prolific scoring form, per a 18 October 2026 report.