The much anticipated knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League will take place this week. A lot of enticing matches await us, including the all important tie-up of two of the most frequent UCL contestants in recent years. Since 2012, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have met in the competition six times. The results have been mixed but Bayern still holds the upper hand, with three victories in those six games, with one draw and two defeats.
However, in a competition as big as the Champions League, we never know what’s gonna come around. The history will completely, be disregarded as the two teams get ready to face each other this Wednesday.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Bayern Munich Lineup Vs Arsenal
Goalkeeper: The undisputed number one goalie in the world, Manuel Neuer has had a topsy-turvy season. The world champion has kept the most number of clean sheets in the Bundesliga this season, however, his recent performance has been a subject of some criticism from fans. He will seek a rather different outcome when his side takes on the Premier League outfit.
Right Back: Philip Lahm’s retirement news has come through as a shocker in world football. The World Cup winner with Germany has decided to hang up his boots come the end of this season.
While, retiring at 33 may seem early, but it will be an end of an outstanding career. Regardless, he will be looking to end his career with a Champions League medal, and that journey will start against Arsenal on Wednesday.
Center Back (R): Javi Martinez has replaced the injured Jerome Boateng very well this season. In fact, he has probably been the best Bayern Munich center back this season. Often criticized for his lack of pace, Martinez covers up his lack of speed with excellent positioning, which will be crucial against Arsenal’s pacy strikeforce.
Center Back (L): Former Dortmund defender Mats Hummels will partner alongside Javi Martinez. Hummels had a decent season after arriving from Dortmund last summer.
His proficiency in buildup and defense will be pivotal in order to keep Arsenal quiet.
Left Back: David Alaba scored a gem of a goal in matchday 19 last week from a free kick. So quite evidently, he is a big contender for one of Europe’s best fullbacks. Alaba’s offensive credentials will be put to test this week.
