First and foremost, our thoughts are with Joshua Kimmich and his family following the heartbreaking loss of a loved one. Football is secondary at a time like this, and the BFW community wishes the Kimmich family strength, comfort, and privacy as they navigate this difficult period.

As we have all come to know over the years, though, the show will go on for Bayern Munich vs. Arsenal in the Champions League despite the incredibly difficult situation surrounding Kimmich.

With the midfielder out for Bayern Munich’s clash with Arsenal, Tom Bischof is expected to step in alongside Aleksandar Pavlović in midfield, offering Bayern Munich a different but intriguing combination. Bischof brings energy, technical quality, composure on the ball, and the ability to progress play with his passing. His versatility also gives Vincent Kompany another option in a match where Bayern Munich will need to be sharp under Arsenal’s pressure.

Pavlović can provide the positional discipline and control needed to balance the pairing, while Bischof looks to find spaces, move the ball forward, and contribute creatively. It will be a significant test for the young midfielder against elite opposition, but also a valuable opportunity to show what he can bring to Bayern Munich at this level.

The hope is that Bischof and Pavlović can form a strong partnership in midfield while Kimmich takes the time he and his family need.