Bayern Munich have confirmed that Joshua Kimmich will miss their UEFA Champions League encounter against Arsenal following a death in his immediate family, dealing the German champions a significant setback ahead of Wednesday night’s meeting at the Allianz Arena.
The 31-year-old midfielder was omitted from Bayern’s squad after missing the team’s final training session on Tuesday for personal reasons. The club confirmed his absence on Wednesday, expressing its condolences and asking the public to respect the privacy of the player and his family during their period of mourning.
In a statement published on the club’s official social media account, Bayern said: “Due to a passing in his immediate family, Joshua Kimmich is not in the squad today for the match against Arsenal.”
The club added: “On behalf of the family, we ask that his privacy and grief be respected, and that further inquiries and reporting be refrained from.”
Bayern also expressed its support for the Germany international and his loved ones, making clear that the club stands alongside him during the difficult period.
The club has not disclosed the identity of the deceased, and the circumstances surrounding the bereavement remain private. Respecting that request is particularly important as Kimmich takes time away from football to deal with the loss.
His absence nevertheless presents a challenge for Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany ahead of a high-profile European fixture against the Premier League champions.
Kimmich has established himself as one of Bayern’s most influential players, combining technical ability, tactical intelligence and leadership in the middle of the pitch. His versatility allows him to operate in defensive midfield or a deeper playmaking role, making him an important component of the team’s approach to controlling possession and building attacks.
Without him, Bayern will need to adjust their midfield arrangements for a match in which both teams will be eager to strengthen their position in the Champions League league phase.
The German champions will also be without winger Michael Olise, who is suspended for the encounter following his dismissal in their previous European fixture against Viking.
Despite the absences, Bayern enter the match with considerable confidence following their emphatic 6-1 Bundesliga victory over RB Leipzig on Saturday. The result demonstrated their attacking strength as they prepared for the challenge posed by Arsenal.
Their European campaign, however, has included a more complicated result. Bayern began with a commanding victory over Bodo/Glimt before drawing 3-3 away to Viking, leaving them keen to produce a stronger performance in front of their home supporters.
Arsenal’s visit therefore represents an important test for Kompany’s side, who must find a way to compensate for Kimmich’s absence while maintaining their usual intensity and organisation.
For Arsenal, the German midfielder’s unavailability changes the selection picture, although the visitors will still face a Bayern side with considerable quality throughout its squad.
The encounter also brings together two clubs with ambitions of progressing deep into the competition, increasing the importance of tactical discipline and effective use of possession.
Nevertheless, football will take a back seat for Kimmich as he mourns his family loss. Bayern’s public statement has placed the emphasis on supporting their player rather than discussing the personal circumstances behind his absence.
The midfielder’s return to action will depend on his circumstances, and the club has not provided a timeline for his availability beyond confirming that he will miss the Arsenal match.
For now, Bayern have made their position clear: they stand behind Kimmich and his family and are asking supporters and the media to respect their privacy.
The Champions League fixture will proceed without one of the German side’s most experienced midfielders, but the more important concern for the club is ensuring that Kimmich has the space and support he needs during a difficult time.
