Napoli Host Arsenal in Champions League Opener

Early-season injuries plus unexpected absences are shaping team selection and tactics for both sides.

Overview

The Group-stage match is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, with kickoff at 19:00 GMT at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Arsenal travel unbeaten after three Premier League wins, including a 2-1 derby comeback over Chelsea on Sunday that extended their strong early form.
Napoli arrive under pressure after a 3-2 defeat at Inter on September 5 that exposed late defensive lapses and raised questions about their back line.
Scott McTominay will miss roughly a month for a planned minor heart procedure, removing a midfield option from Napoli’s early Champions League plans.
Kevin De Bruyne could make a first start for Napoli, with Arsenal coping without centre-back William Saliba until November as they seek to translate domestic momentum into Europe.