Tonight is possibly the tie of the Champions League group stage as Arsenal host Bayern Munich. Both teams have had a perfect start in Europe – winning four out of four – as well as sitting atop their domestic leagues. It will be a fascinating matchup between the defensive strength of Arteta’s men and the inform Bayern forward line.
Here’s the Score 90 Combined Arsenal and Bayern Munich XI, assuming there were no injuries.
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Arsenal)
In his prime, Neuer would have walked into most combined XIs. He is still a fine goalkeeper – especially for one close to 40 – but David Raya represents the current generation of world-class stoppers. The Spaniard combines elite distribution and incredible reflexes, very much in the mould of the veteran German he’ll be facing off against tonight.
Defender: Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
Konrad Laimer had been doing a fine job at the right of the Bayern defence before Stanisic’s return, but Timber remains a level above. He dominates the right flank both defensively and offensively, rarely beaten by his winger and still popping up with two goals and three assists already this season.
Defender: William Saliba (Arsenal)
Taken Van Dijk’s crown as the “Rolls Royce” of defenders – Saliba makes it look effortless. Composed on the ball, strong in the tackle and quick over any distance; the perfect centre-back. Neither Dayot Upamecano or Jonathan Tah come close.
Defender: Gabriel (Arsenal)
Will miss tonight’s game through injury, a major blow in both boxes for Mikel Arteta. Gabriel is arguably the best centre-back in the world on current form and among the only centre-backs who could hope to keep Harry Kane quiet. His imposing presence from corners and set-pieces will be a big miss for Arsenal.
Defender: Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal)
Rounding off the Arsenal defensive unit is the latest addition to the backline. Since joining in 2024, Calafiori has gone from strength to strength, thriving in Arteta’s setup. Just like Timber on the other side, the Italian is equally adept in both halves. Alphonso Davies has been a long-term absentee, but even at full fitness he’d struggle to dislodge Calafiori in this combined XI.
Midfielder: Declan Rice (Arsenal)
At the heart of this combined XI is the man central to Arsenal’s dominance this season. His €116.60m transfer fee initially raised a few eyebrows, but nobody is doubting his importance and ability now. His pinpoint set-piece delivery alone is worthy of his inclusion, let alone the other world-class aspects to his game.
Midfielder: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
Kimmich gets the nod over Martín Zubimendi, despite the Spaniard’s fine start to the season. Bayern’s stalwart quietly goes about his business, controlling the tempo of the game better than most. He’s not the quickest or strongest, but few can match his tactical versatility or game intelligence.
Attacking Midfielder: Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)
It is a frightening thought that Bayern are this good even without Musiala, who has been sidelined since suffering a broken fibula in July. The young attacking midfielder is a dynamic presence in the middle, with silky smooth dribbling and an eye for goal. Eberechi Eze very unfortunate to miss out.
Winger: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Beloved by Arsenal fans, yet seemingly underrated by many others. Saka is undoubtedly among the finest wingers in the world, and absolutely central to Arteta’s hopes of securing major silverware this season. Yet to register an assist this season and only six goals, but his impact on the game remains elite.
Winger: Michael Olise (Bayern Munich)
The most in-form winger in the world at the moment. Fresh off the back of two goals and three assists against Freiburg, Olise will be a constant menace. Few players can match his creativity and output.
Striker: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
What a season Harry Kane is having – he’s certainly aging like fine wine. With 24 goals to his name already, the Englishman will be relishing a return to the Emirates. In 21 previous appearances against Arsenal, he’s found the back of the net 15 times and will back himself to add to that tally tonight. Viktor Gyökeres’ goal return last season was rivalling Kane’s, but has yet to fire on all cylinders with his new club.
