Arsenal Face Leverkusen in Champions League Last-16 First Leg

Arsenal are favorites as they travel to Germany to face Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday. Mikel Arteta’s side, who won all eight games in the league phase, are aiming for their first major silverware since 2020 and remain on track for a potential four-trophy haul this season.

Match Details

Teams: Bayer Leverkusen vs. Arsenal

Competition: UEFA Champions League – Round of 16

Date: Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Arsenal’s Form and Potential Lineup

Arsenal’s impressive run in the league phase sets them as strong contenders. A successful result against Leverkusen would set up a tie against either Bodo/Glimt or Sporting CP. Central defender William Saliba has been recovering from an ankle issue and could be available for selection. UEFA.com provides further match information.

Leverkusen’s Challenges

Leverkusen, currently sixth in the Bundesliga, are undergoing a rebuilding phase following a tumultuous summer that saw the departure of coach Xabi Alonso and key players including Florian Wirtz, Granit Xhaka, and Piero Hincapie. Despite these changes, Leverkusen are confident in their home form. Alejandro Grimaldo stated, “We’re strong at home. We have a chance there – we can win there.” The Mercury reports on this confidence.

Recent History

Leverkusen’s victory against Olympiacos in the play-off round was their first Champions League knockout tie win since reaching the final in 2002, where they lost to Real Madrid. The Mercury highlights this historical context.

Hincapie’s Potential Farewell

Piero Hincapié, currently on loan at Arsenal from Bayer Leverkusen, could be featuring in his final game for the German club. Arsenal have an option to sign the Colombian defender permanently at the end of the season, after he was a key member of Leverkusen’s Bundesliga title-winning side in 2023/24. Bundesliga.com details this situation.

Managerial Insights

Mikel Arteta spoke about Kai Havertz’s return to his former club, noting the respect Havertz has for Leverkusen and the learnings he gained during his time there. Arteta likewise emphasized the high stakes of the Champions League knockout stage, stating, “We’re going to face a very difficult contest tomorrow against a really good team.” Leverkusen’s Christian Kofane acknowledged Arsenal’s strength, saying, “Arsenal are a great team.” Kasper Hjulmand, Leverkusen’s manager, described Arsenal as “maybe the best team in Europe right now.” Bundesliga.com provides these quotes.