Gnabry relishing 'special' Arsenal reunion as Olise ban and Musiala injury boost Bayern recall claims

Gnabry eyes emotional return against boyhood club

Ahead of Bayern Munich's Champions League meeting with Arsenal on Wednesday at the Allianz Arena, Serge Gnabry spoke to the media about the upcoming game against the club where he took his first steps in professional football. Having spent five years as a youngster at Arsenal, the fixture holds special significance for the German international.

"It's always a special match against a former club. I grew up there and I'm really looking forward to it. We last played at the Emirates. It's a bit strange to play against a coach you used to play alongside yourself. We want to win – that's what it's all about. I'm looking forward to the match," Gnabry said.

Olise suspension and Musiala injury open the door

With Michael Olise suspended and Jamal Musiala injured, Gnabry is in contention for a starting spot. However, the attacker pointed out that his presence at the press conference does not guarantee a place in the starting XI.

"It's very kind of you to have included me in the starting XI. That's all I can say. Michael Olise and Jamal Musiala aren't in the squad. I really don't know yet who will be playing," said Gnabry.

Building back to peak form

The winger is still working his way back to peak form after an injury break and is grateful simply to be back on the pitch.

"I'm delighted to be back in action now after a long spell on the sidelines. I'm grateful for every minute I get. I need the playing time to get back into shape. I'm happy when I play, but the main thing is that we win as a team.

"It takes a bit of time to get back into the swing of things. Game time is, of course, crucial. The most important thing is that I don't suffer a setback; everything else will fall into place."

Bayern boss Vincent Kompany, speaking in prior coverage on 2026-09-10, had stressed the importance of Gnabry's return to form, saying: "The main thing is that we've not forgotten how good he was last season. Our aim is for him to get back to that level. When Serge reaches his level, everyone else in that position also has to be good; then you have that competition and sharpness." With Olise absent through suspension and Musiala sidelined, that competition on the right flank could now work in Gnabry's favour.