Family tragedy before the battle of giants. Bayern leader to miss Arsenal clash

One of Bayern Munich’s leaders, Joshua Kimmich, will miss today’s UEFA Champions League match against Arsenal of London following the death of a close relative.

Details: The German club’s press service officially confirmed that the thirty-one-year-old midfielder was not included in the squad and issued a special statement.

“On behalf of the family, we ask that his privacy and grief be respected, and that people refrain from making further inquiries or publishing anything on the subject. The entire Bayern family extends its deepest condolences and stands with Joshua Kimmich,” the club statement read.

The forced loss of a key midfielder on the eve of a crucial European battle came as a heavy blow to the Munich side. The club’s management stressed that the vice-captain would be given all the time he needs to be with his family, with all sporting commitments removed for the coming days.

It is worth noting that Joshua Kimmich has played for Bayern since the summer of 2015, winning the UEFA Champions League trophy, the UEFA Super Cup and numerous Bundesliga titles with the Munich giants. The Germany captain has consistently been the conductor in midfield and a leader in the dressing room, meaning his absence at the Allianz Arena will require the coaching staff to make major tactical adjustments in the holding midfield role against the Gunners.

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