The UEFA Champions League 1/8 final clash at Emirates Stadium in London kicks off on 17 March 2026 at 20:00 UTC. Arsenal arrive as the competition’s form side, top of the overall table with 24 points from 8 matches (8 wins, goal difference +19, 23 scored, 4 conceded). Bayer Leverkusen sit 16th in the overall standings on 12 points from 8 games (3 wins, 3 draws, 2 defeats, goal difference -1, 13 scored, 14 conceded).
Arsenal Availability
Arsenal are hit by multiple absences in midfield and defence. Mikel Merino (leg injury), Martin Ødegaard (knee injury) and Jurrien Timber (injury) are all ruled out. However, key attacker Gabriel Martinelli is fit and available, having scored 6 goals and provided 1 assist in this Champions League campaign, underlining his importance to an attack that has delivered 23 goals in 8 matches.
Bayer Leverkusen Availability
Leverkusen have a lengthy unavailable list: Arthur (ankle), L. Badé (muscle), E. Ben Seghir (ankle), M. Flekken (knee), Lucas Vázquez (calf), N. Tella (inactive) and I. Traore (inactive) are all ruled out. M. Terrier is uncertain and faces a late fitness test. Creative fulcrum Álex Grimaldo, with 4 goals and 3 assists in the competition, is fit and available.
Impact Summary
Arsenal lose control and depth in midfield but retain their main attacking output through Martinelli. Leverkusen’s issues are broader across defence, goalkeeping and depth in attack, though keeping Grimaldo available preserves a significant share of their 13-goal attacking threat.
