According to a report by London Evening Standard on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Arsenal have handed Noni Madueke a starting role for Wednesday's Champions League showdown against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Mikel Arteta has made two changes to his team as the Gunners prepare for a difficult test in Germany, with Madueke rewarded for his recent performances.

The England international impressed after coming off the bench during Sunday's Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest, scoring the winning goal. He replaces Eberechi Eze, who started on the left wing against Forest but struggled to make an impact before being substituted at half-time.

Madueke has looked promising in his recent appearances on the left flank, and Arteta will hope he can deliver another influential performance against Bayern. The German side are managed by Vincent Kompany, although his availability for the encounter remains uncertain because of an ongoing illness.

Jurrien Timber also returns to Arsenal's starting lineup, taking the right-back position as he continues to share playing time with Ben White. The latter drops to the bench for the European fixture.

Bruno Guimaraes partners Declan Rice in midfield, while Myles Lewis-Skelly must settle for a substitute role. Martin Zubimendi is also available again after recovering from a minor hamstring problem. Arteta previously indicated that the midfielder would be involved, although he has not been selected to start.

Kai Havertz retains his place as Arsenal's central striker despite struggling for consistent form since the international break. Viktor Gyokeres, who has yet to score for the Gunners this season, is among the substitutes after starting their previous Champions League matches.

Arsenal will be without William Saliba, Piero Hincapie and Tzolis because of injuries. Hincapie is recovering from an ankle problem, but Arteta has suggested that the defender could return for Saturday's Premier League match against Everton if he manages to resume training.

The Gunners will aim to produce a strong performance in Munich as they continue their European campaign. Madueke's inclusion adds another attacking option, while the return of Zubimendi provides Arteta with greater depth in midfield.

Arsenal Confirmed Starting Lineup:

Raya; Timber, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Guimaraes, Rice; Saka, Odegaard, Madueke; Havertz.