Bayern Munich’s prospects for the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal have taken a significant blow as their winger, Serge Gnabry, sustained a hamstring injury during Tuesday’s intense 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium. Gnabry, a former Arsenal player, managed to equalize the score after Bukayo Saka’s initial opener, but he had to be substituted off with just 20 minutes remaining, visibly clutching the back of his leg in discomfort.
This injury adds to Gnabry’s already injury-marred campaign, and his frustration was palpable as he left the field. Bayern’s ambitions to progress to the semi-finals hinge on a victory at the Allianz Arena, but they will have to navigate this crucial encounter without Gnabry, as Bayern’s manager Thomas Tuchel expressed doubts regarding Gnabry’s availability for the return leg, citing the severity of the hamstring injury.
Furthermore, Bayern will also be deprived of the services of Alphonso Davies in the second leg, as he incurred a suspension due to receiving a yellow card during the previous match. Although Leroy Sane was substituted off during the second half, there is hope that the German winger will recover in time for the pivotal clash.
Meanwhile, Arsenal is preparing for their Premier League encounter against Aston Villa on Sunday, while Bayern faces Koln in their domestic league on Saturday. These fixtures underscore the demanding schedule and the importance of squad depth for both teams as they navigate through the business end of their respective competitions.