Bayern Await Kompany Fitness Verdict Before Arsenal Clash

Bayern Munich are still waiting to learn whether Vincent Kompany can be in the Allianz Arena dugout for Arsenal’s visit after the head coach missed Tuesday’s final training session and pre-match press conference.

Kompany is recovering from a viral infection which has badly affected his hip. Assistant coach Aaron Danks took over media duties and said the club would reassess the manager’s condition on matchday.

Quick facts

Kompany missed Bayern’s final Arsenal training session because of a viral infection.
Joshua Kimmich was absent for personal reasons and remains a selection doubt.
Manuel Neuer has trained on grass for two days after a foot injury.
Bayern have four Champions League points and sit 10th in the standings.
The Bundesliga leaders have 14 points, level with Borussia Dortmund but ahead on goal difference.

Danks said Kompany is being monitored continuously and remains in regular contact with the coaching staff, offering his input from outside the training ground. A final call on his attendance against Mikel Arteta’s side will be made on Wednesday.

The assistant insisted Bayern’s preparations will not be derailed if Kompany cannot take charge. He said the staff have established routines and that their priority is keeping the players fresh and ready for the European tie.

Kimmich’s availability is another concern. The 31-year-old has played in all 10 Bayern matches in every competition this season and has supplied four assists, but Danks could not say whether the midfielder would be involved against Arsenal after his personal absence.

There is better news over Neuer, who is back outdoors following the foot problem that kept him out of Bayern’s last two games. The 40-year-old goalkeeper has made six appearances this term, but was sidelined after the 2-2 draw with Augsburg on October 10.

Neuer missed the 6-1 win over RB Leipzig and was only among the substitutes for the 3-3 Champions League draw with Viking. Danks said Bayern have yet to decide whether their captain is ready to return, with Kompany and the coaching group set to make that decision.

Bayern opened their Champions League campaign with a 5-0 win over Bodo/Glimt before drawing with Viking. They now face Arsenal with uncertainty surrounding their manager, a key midfielder and their first-choice goalkeeper.