The UEFA Champions League 1/8 final tie at Emirates Stadium in London kicks off on 17 March 2026 at 20:00 UTC. Arsenal come in as the competition’s form side, top of the overall table with 8 wins from 8, 23 goals scored and just 4 conceded. Bayer Leverkusen sit 16th in the overall ranking with 12 points from 8 matches, scoring 13 and conceding 14.
Arsenal Availability
Arsenal are hit by several absences in midfield and defence. Mikel Merino (leg injury), Martin Ødegaard (knee injury) and Jurrien Timber (injury) are all ruled out. None of the three feature among the Champions League top scorers or assist providers, so the core of Arsenal’s attacking production remains intact. Key forward Gabriel Martinelli, who has 6 goals and 1 assist in this Champions League campaign, is fully fit and available.
Bayer Leverkusen Availability
Leverkusen face a longer absentee 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, while M. Terrier is doubtful with an injury. Their main creative force Álex Grimaldo, with 4 goals and 3 assists, is available.
Impact Summary
Arsenal retain their primary attacking threat through Martinelli, preserving most of their 23-goal output. Leverkusen’s injuries are deeper numerically, but crucially Grimaldo’s availability means their main source of 7 direct goal contributions is intact, keeping their attacking ceiling relatively high despite defensive and depth losses.
