Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Champions League Clash: Lineups, Team News, Predictions, and How to Watch Live

Bayern Munich is set to host Chelsea at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League encounter. The match marks the opening of the 2025-2026 group stage, bringing together two of Europe’s most competitive clubs. Fans across the globe are eager to see how Bayern’s dominant Bundesliga form will match up against Chelsea’s tactical discipline. Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM local time (3:00 PM ET).

Bayern Munich Lineup and Team News Ahead of Chelsea Showdown

Bayern Munich enters this Champions League match under the guidance of head coach Vincent Kompany, boasting a string of three consecutive Bundesliga victories, including a resounding 5–0 win over Hamburg. Harry Kane continues to lead Bayern’s attack with eight goals and three assists in five competitive matches.

Bayern’s expected lineup features a 4-2-3-1 formation:

• Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer

• Defenders: Josip Stanišić, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich

• Midfielders: Nemanja Pavlović, Serge Gnabry, Olise, Díaz

• Forward: Harry Kane

Raphaël Guerreiro is sidelined with a stomach muscle injury, while Alphonso Davies and Jamal Musiala remain out with long-term injuries. This lineup reflects Bayern’s strategy to leverage their attacking firepower while maintaining midfield control against Chelsea.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup and Injury Updates

Chelsea, returning to the Champions League after a two-year hiatus, faces Bayern Munich with several injury concerns. Head coach Enzo Maresca has key players unavailable, including Liam Delap with a hamstring injury, and Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer not fully fit.

Chelsea is expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation:

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez

• Defenders: Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella

• Midfielders: Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández

• Attacking Midfielders: Estêvão, Cole Palmer, Neto

• Forward: João Pedro

Despite the absences, Chelsea will rely on the creativity of Enzo Fernández and the youthful energy of Estêvão and Cole Palmer to challenge Bayern’s attacking threats.

Tactical Analysis: Bayern Munich vs Chelsea

Bayern Munich’s attacking strategy, led by Harry Kane, is expected to dominate possession and apply constant pressure on Chelsea’s defense. The team’s high pressing and rapid transitions are likely to test Chelsea’s defensive organization from the outset.

Chelsea, on the other hand, may adopt a cautious approach, emphasizing counter-attacks and set-pieces. Their midfield strength, led by Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández, will be critical in dictating the tempo of the game and creating scoring opportunities despite the absence of key forwards.

How to Watch Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Live

Fans in the United States can stream the match on Paramount+, which provides a one-week free trial for new subscribers. In the United Kingdom, coverage will be available on TNT Sports 2, starting at 7:00 PM BST ahead of the 8:00 PM kick-off.

Predictions for Bayern Munich vs Chelsea Champions League Encounter

Given Bayern Munich’s current form, home advantage, and attacking strength, they are considered favorites to secure a victory. Chelsea’s resilience and tactical organization, however, could make for a closely contested match. A likely outcome based on recent performances is a 3–1 win for Bayern Munich, though Chelsea’s counter-attacking threats could influence the final scoreline.