Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal Preview: Team News, Predicted Lineups and Champions League Prediction
Arsenal’s pursuit of their first UEFA Champions League title continues this week as Mikel Arteta’s side travel to Germany to face Bayer Leverkusen in the round of 16 first leg at BayArena.
After finishing the league phase with a flawless record, Arsenal were rewarded with what appears to be one of the more favourable draws in the knockout stage. However, Leverkusen remain a dangerous opponent, particularly on home soil.
The London club have steadily grown into one of Europe’s most consistent teams under Arteta, reaching the quarter-finals and semi-finals in the past two seasons. With the squad now deeper and more experienced, Arsenal believe this could finally be the year they break their Champions League ceiling.
Leverkusen searching for European Momentum
Leverkusen enter the tie after navigating the playoff round by defeating Olympiacos to secure their place in the last 16.
However, their domestic campaign has been less convincing. The Bundesliga side currently sit sixth in the table, struggling to match the consistency of Europe’s top contenders.
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Still, the club proved their ability to compete at the highest level when they stunned German football with a historic domestic double in the 2023–24 season, and their tactical discipline means they cannot be underestimated.
Home advantage in the first leg could be crucial if they hope to put pressure on Arsenal before the return match in London.
Arsenal seeking multiple trophies
The Champions League remains one of several trophies Arsenal are chasing this season. Arteta’s squad continue to compete on multiple fronts and recently advanced to the FA Cup quarter-finals after defeating Mansfield Town, though the lower-league side forced them into a difficult contest.
A powerful strike from Eberechi Eze ultimately separated the teams, highlighting the midfielder’s growing importance to Arsenal’s attack.
- Related Article: Arsenal beat Mansfield to reach FA Cup Quarter-Finals
Despite a packed schedule, the Gunners have shown resilience and squad depth, key attributes required for a deep Champions League run.
Team News: Leverkusen dealing with injury concerns
Leverkusen could be missing several key players for the opening leg. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken and defenders Lucas Vázquez and Loïc Badé are among those ruled out, while Eliesse Ben Seghir and Arthur also remain sidelined.
Manager Kasper Hjulmand is also monitoring the fitness of striker Patrik Schick, who missed the weekend draw against Freiburg due to a minor muscle issue. The Czech forward played a decisive role in Leverkusen’s qualification for this stage, scoring twice against Olympiacos.
American playmaker Malik Tillman is expected to return to the starting lineup after recovering from an ankle injury.
Arsenal Team News: Key Players Returning
Arsenal rotated heavily in their domestic fixture over the weekend, resting several regular starters. Key players such as Declan Rice, Gabriel, and Martín Zubimendi are expected to return to the lineup for the Champions League clash.
However, Arteta faces some concerns. Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori both picked up minor injuries and remain doubts. Defender William Saliba has missed the last two matches with an ankle issue but could return in time for the game.
Meanwhile, captain Martin Ødegaard remains unavailable and is not expected to return until after the international break. His absence has allowed Eberechi Eze to take on greater creative responsibility, and the midfielder has impressed with a series of strong performances.
Predicted Lineups
Bayer Leverkusen Predicted XI (3-4-2-1)
Blaswich
Quansah – Andrich – Tapsoba
Poku – Palacios – García – Grimaldo
Tillman – Terrier
Schick
Arsenal Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
Raya
Timber – Saliba – Gabriel – Hincapié
Zubimendi – Rice
Saka – Eze – Martinelli
Gyökeres
Match Details
Location: Leverkusen, Germany
Stadium: BayArena
Date: Wednesday, March 11
Kick-off:
- 5:45 PM GMT
- 1:45 PM ET
- 10:45 AM PT
Referee: Halil Umut Meler (Turkey)
VAR: Rob Dieperink (Netherlands)
Match Prediction
Arsenal enter the tie as favourites thanks to their strong form, deeper squad, and growing experience in Champions League knockout football. Leverkusen have enough attacking quality to trouble the visitors, especially at home, but Arsenal’s midfield control and defensive structure could prove decisive.
If the Gunners maintain their composure and exploit transitions effectively, they should leave Germany with a valuable advantage ahead of the second leg.
Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 1–2 Arsenal
SportsLigue