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Arsenal have received a boost ahead of their Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich, with Martin Zubimendi expected to feature after recovering from an ankle problem, while Piero Hincapie and William Saliba remain sidelined.
According to a report by Football London on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, Mikel Arteta has provided updates on his squad's fitness ahead of Wednesday's encounter at the Allianz Arena, with several players facing different recovery timelines.
Zubimendi returned to the bench during Arsenal's Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest at the weekend but did not feature in the match.
The midfielder suffered an ankle issue following what was described as a freak accident involving teammate Mikel Merino.
Arteta has now confirmed that the Spain international will be involved against Bayern, giving Arsenal another option in midfield for the crucial European fixture.
The Gunners will also be hoping to welcome Hincapie back soon. The Ecuadorian defender was spotted on the training pitch on Tuesday but is not expected to be ready for the Bayern match.
Arteta is optimistic that the summer signing could return for Saturday's Premier League meeting with Everton, depending on his progress over the coming days.
"And Piero, let's see," the Arsenal manager said. "if he's able to train in the next few days as well, he can be available for Everton, which would be great news."
Saliba's absence remains a concern, although there are positive signs regarding his recovery. The French defender is targeting a return towards the end of November, with Arsenal monitoring his progress through further medical assessments.
"I think next week we have another MRI with him to see how the healing process is at the moment. But every sign so far has been very, very positive, and yeah, it will be great to have him," Arteta said last week.
Meanwhile, winger Christos Tzolis continues his recovery from injury and could return in early November. Arteta previously indicated that the Greek international was progressing well following another MRI scan.
There was also positive news concerning goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who travelled with the squad to Munich after missing the Nottingham Forest match. He has recovered from his knock and is available as back-up to first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.
Arsenal have won their opening two Champions League matches, beating Napoli 1-0 before defeating Lille 3-0. Arteta will hope to maintain that momentum against Bayern while managing his squad carefully.