Bayern Munich star Xabi Alonso is a major doubt for the Champions League tie against Arsenal as he fails to finish training after a heavy tackle from Javi Martinez
BAYERN MUNICH star Xabi Alonso is a major doubt to face Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday after clashing with Javi Martinez.
The 35-year-old was unable to finish training as the rest of squad prepare to face the Gunners at the Allianz Arena.
Star striker Robert Lewandowski has been in lethal form again this season – banging in 23 goals in 29 gamesGetty ImagesXabi Alonso is a major doubt to face Arsenal after a heavy tackle from Javi MartinezGetty ImagesThis will be Philipp Lahms last season in the Champions League after he announced he would be retiring at the end of the seasonGetty Images
The two European giants will meet once again in UEFA’s premier competition for the fourth time in five seasons.
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In fact the two sides have met in the Round of 16 three times since the start of the century, where Bayern have advanced every time.
Arturo Vidal has been impressed by Arsenal’s attacking qualities this season, and is hoping they don’t come to the Allianz Arena and sit back.
He told German newspaper TZ: “Here in Germany, all teams set out to defend when they are playing Bayern.
“In the Champions League, all teams are trying to play football.
Franck Ribery alongside two of the clubs fitness coaches in trainingGetty ImagesJerome Boateng has established himself as one of the world’s best centre-back’s at BayernGetty Images
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“I hope Arsenal will play like they have been playing all season in England and want to play football against us.
“Teams have to show what they are made of in Europe. That is why Bayern will show its true face in the Champions League.”
Carlo Ancelotti’s men left it late on the weekend when they beat Ingolstadt 2-0 in the Bundesliga to go seven points clear at the top.
Two goals in second-half injury time from Vidal and Arjen Robben ensured they go into the game high on confidence.
The squad get put through their paces before their game at the Allianz ArenaGetty Images
Arsenal – who have not been in the quarter-finals of the Champions League since the 2009/10 season won 2-0 themselves in the Premier league.
An Alexis Sanchez brace moved him up to 19 goals in all competitions as he netted in either half against lowly Hull City.
An away goal could be crucial for Arsene Wenger’s men as they welcome Bayern to the Emirates for the second leg on March 7.
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