The Gunners are competing at this stage of the competition for the first time since 2010 and will fancy their chances of progressing against an out-of-sorts Bayern. Harry Kane’s side were already set up to be in front of a fervent home crown in North London, but the absence of away supporters promise to make it an even more daunting prospect. UEFA actually slapped Bayern with a €40,000 fine back in October for doing the same thing during the 2-1 win over Copenhagen.
The German giants were given a one-game suspended ban from purchasing away tickets, which was triggered by the incidents at Lazio. Bayern were quick to concede that they will not bother appealing the decision. Club CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen explained: “We have to accept this punishment.
Not only were pyrotechnics set off, but also fired deliberately onto the field, directly endangering bystanders. This was such an explicit violation of the conditions of probation that an appeal is unfortunately futile.” The fact we now have to play away without the support of our fans is a big blow.
Therefore, Arteta’s side will have a 60,000-capacity stadium packed to the rafters with every single person inside cheering them on. And Arsenal have warned their own fans that any individual who sells their ticket to a Bayern supporter will be banned. Any season-ticket holder or Arsenal member’s seat found to be in possession of an away fan will be suspended indefinitely.
Club officials at Bayern have also advised their own fans not to make the trip from Munich as they look to retain hope of winning any silverware this season. From the Gunners’ perspective, they will look to make that advantage count in game one. Progression was more straightforward for Bayern, who beat Lazio 3-1 on aggregate in the previous round.
The England captain was always a thorn in the side of Gunners defenders during his Spurs days and will be out to inflict more misery when he comes back in a Bayern shirt. *Join our new WhatsApp community* *and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
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