Homecoming: Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is set to feature against former club Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League this evening
A third away game in seven days sees Arsenal face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League last-16 first leg this evening. The Gunners have been exceptional in Europe so far this season, winning all eight matches in the league phase to top the table and be drawn on the more favourable side of the knockout path.
It is the start of a huge fortnight for Arsenal in their quest for an unprecedented quadruple and they'll be keen to take a positive result into next week's second leg which falls five days before the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City. William Saliba, Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Gabriel are set to return, but Martin Odegaard remains sidelined with a knee injury.
Leverkusen finished 16th in the league phase - despite beating Man City away from home - then overcame Olympiacos in the knockout round play-off. Though, they have won just twice in their last five matches across all competitions and are dealing with a mini injury crisis. Follow the game LIVE below with our dedicated match blog, featuring expert insight and analysis from Matt Verri at the ground!
How to watch
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on TNT Sports. Coverage starts at 5pm GMT on TNT Sports 3.
Live stream: TNT Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Discovery+ app and website.
Live coverage: You can follow all the action right here via Standard Sport’s live blog, with expert analysis from Matt Verri!
Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal live
Hello and welcome to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal!
The Gunners are in Germany this evening for a Champions League last-16 first leg meeting against Leverkusen, hoping to remain on course for an unprecedented quadruple.
We’ll have all the latest updates, build-up and team news right here ahead of kick-off, which comes at 5.45pm GMT from the BayArena. Stick with us!
London Standard