Arsenal face Bayern, Inter and Atlético in the Champions League group stage
Arsenal’s path in the 2025/26 Champions League will not be easy. In Thursday’s draw in Monaco, the Gunners were paired with European giants Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Atlético de Madrid, along with Club Brugge, Olympiacos, Slavia Prague, Kairat Almaty and Athletic Club.
Kane faces Arsenal again
The clash with Bayern Munich will revive a familiar rivalry: Harry Kane, once Tottenham’s star striker, will face Arsenal once more. Kane has scored 15 goals in 21 matches against the Gunners, including one in last season’s quarterfinal clash, when Bayern eliminated Arsenal.
A balanced but tricky schedule
While Bayern, Atlético and Inter stand out as the toughest tests, Arsenal avoided an even harsher draw. The remaining fixtures against Club Brugge, Olympiacos, Slavia Prague, Kairat Almaty and Athletic Club give Mikel Arteta’s side a chance to collect crucial points.
UEFA will confirm dates and order of the games this Saturday (30).
Arsenal’s ambition after PSG setback
Last season, Arsenal reached the semifinals of the Champions League, only falling to eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. They also eliminated Real Madrid in the quarterfinals, underlining their growing European stature.
In the group stage of 2024/25, the Gunners finished third behind Liverpool and Barcelona, a position that allowed them to skip the playoff round.
Inspired by women’s European triumph
Despite the men’s team falling short, Arsenal Women lifted the Champions League trophy, bringing new energy to the club. The achievement has fueled ambition for Arteta’s squad to end a drought that has lasted since their only men’s final appearance, in 2006.
The road ahead
Facing Bayern, Inter and Atlético will demand consistency and resilience. With a strong core of young talent and Arteta’s tactical vision, Arsenal aim not only to survive the group stage but also to chase a long-awaited spot in the Champions League final.
