Kimmich Ruled Out Of Bayern’s Arsenal Clash Following Family Bereavement
Bayern Munich captain Joshua Kimmich will miss Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League showdown against Arsenal following a death in his immediate family.
The German champions confirmed the midfielder’s absence ahead of their third league-phase fixture against the Premier League title holders.
In a statement, Bayern expressed sympathy for Kimmich and his family while urging the public and media to respect their privacy during the difficult period.
“Due to a death in his immediate family, Joshua Kimmich is not in the squad today for the match against Arsenal,” the club announced.
“On behalf of the family, we ask that his privacy and grief be respected, and that further inquiries and reporting be refrained from.
“In deep sympathy, the entire FC Bayern stands by Joshua Kimmich’s side.”
Kimmich’s absence is a setback for Bayern ahead of the high-profile European encounter, with the club rallying around their captain as he mourns his loss.
Meanwhile, Bayern could also be without head coach Vincent Kompany, who is reportedly battling a viral infection that has affected his legs.
Kompany remained at home on Tuesday to rest, with assistant coach Aaron Danks handling media duties ahead of the Arsenal fixture.
Danks confirmed that the illness had caused Kompany pain but said the club’s medical team was monitoring his condition.
“It has affected his legs at times and he’s felt some pain,” Danks said.
He added that Kompany had been advised to rest, although it remained uncertain whether the coach would recover in time for the match.
Bayern will therefore be hoping for clarity on their manager’s availability as they prepare for a crucial Champions League test against Arsenal.
