Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry to be rested ahead of Champions League reunion with Arsenal

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Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry will not be available for his team’s weekend Bundesliga fixture against SC Freiburg. Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany revealed this at his Friday pre-match press conference. The German international returned from international duty carrying an injury and will be rested ahead of a Champions League meeting against his former club Arsenal midweek.

“Serge felt something upon returning from the national team,” Kompany said on Friday. “You’ll have to ask the medical department about it. He probably won’t be playing. We want to see if he’s fit for the game after Freiburg [Arsenal].“

High-flying youngster Lennart Karl could replace Gnabry on the right wing or Chelsea loanee Nicolas Jackson could play as a striker. If Karl plays, Michael Olise would move to the number ten position. If Jackson plays, Harry Kane would drop back a row and take over Gnabry’s role as playmaker.

Gnabry will be needed especially next week against his former club Arsenal, as Luis Diaz will be suspended. Bayern remain undefeated through 17 competitive fixtures this year, but did see their historic winning streak come to an end with a 2-2 draw against Union Berlin just prior to the international break.

GGFN | Peter Weis