According to a report by the London Evening Standard published on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces several selection decisions ahead of Wednesday's UEFA Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich, with Noni Madueke emerging as a strong contender for a starting position following his impressive performance against Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal will travel to Germany to face Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in what promises to be an important European fixture. Both teams will be eager to deliver a strong performance, making Arteta's team selection a significant talking point before the encounter.

Madueke strengthened his chances of starting after scoring the winning goal as a substitute in Arsenal's victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday. His recent performances on the left wing have given Arteta another attacking option as the Gunners prepare for the challenge in Germany.

Eberechi Eze started on the left flank against Forest but struggled to influence the game before being substituted at half-time. His performance could open the door for Madueke to earn a place in the starting lineup against Bayern, particularly after demonstrating his ability to make an immediate impact from the bench.

Despite the available options, Arteta is not expected to make extensive changes to his team. However, competition for places could lead to adjustments in certain positions as Arsenal seek to maintain their performance level in the Champions League.

Jurrien Timber could return at right-back as he continues to share responsibilities with Ben White. Meanwhile, Myles Lewis-Skelly will hope to feature in midfield, while Martin Zubimendi is available again after recovering from a minor hamstring problem.

Nevertheless, Zubimendi's limited playing time this season could make a starting role against Bayern less likely, depending on Arteta's tactical plans.

Arsenal's attacking selection also remains uncertain. Kai Havertz has struggled to rediscover his best form since the international break, while Viktor Gyokeres continues to search for his first goal for the club this season.

Although Gyokeres started Arsenal's previous two Champions League matches, Havertz could lead the attack against Bayern because Arteta has favoured him in important fixtures.

Arsenal are also expected to be without William Saliba, Piero Hincapie and Tzolis, who are listed among the injured players.

Arsenal's Predicted Starting Lineup:

Raya; Timber, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Odegaard, Madueke; Havertz.

Madueke's recent contribution has strengthened his claim for a starting position, but Arteta's final decision will depend on the tactical approach he considers most suitable for the difficult away fixture.