Joshua Kimmich to Miss Champions League Match After Father's Death

Bayern Munich captain Joshua Kimmich will miss the club's Champions League match against Arsenal on Wednesday night after his father, Berthold, passed away suddenly at the age of 57. Kimmich missed training for personal reasons, and the German champions confirmed his absence from the squad due to a death in his immediate family.

Berthold Kimmich was described as one of the most influential figures in his son's life, reportedly driving him to his first club as a child. The family is reportedly navigating this difficult time together. Kimmich, 31, is married to Lina and they have four children.

Kimmich has been a consistent presence in Bayern's lineup this season, starting all but one of their matches and appearing as a substitute in that game. The midfielder has featured in all but one of Bayern's matches this season, only missing out on the starting XI in their Bundesliga win over Elversberg, in which he appeared as a substitute.

Bayern Munich will also be without winger Michael Olise, who is serving a one-match ban after being sent off in a previous Champions League game. Manager Vincent Kompany may also be absent due to a virus that has caused him leg pain, according to assistant coach Aaron Danks. Danks stated that Kompany is resting at home but remains in communication and will be involved in the match.

Arsenal will face a Bayern team with a strong home record, having lost only once at home since April 2025. The team has also experienced minimal losses home or away since a defeat to PSG in last year's Champions League semi-final.

Former Arsenal forward Serge Gnabry, who is expected to play in the match, spoke about his past teammate and current Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Gnabry noted Arteta's leadership qualities and support for young players, describing him as a great leader who was always willing to listen. Gnabry anticipates a unique and intense match against his former club, different from typical Bundesliga fixtures.