Mikel Arteta's Arsenal travel to Naples on Wednesday, 9 September for their opening fixture of the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 league phase, taking on Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Kick-off is at 8:00pm BST.

Arsenal's European pedigree

The Gunners arrive in Italy carrying serious momentum. Under Arteta, Arsenal have reached the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final in three successive Champions League campaigns. Last season's run ended in heartbreak, however, when Paris Saint-Germain beat them on penalties in the final in Budapest.

On the domestic front, Arsenal have made an equally strong start to the Premier League season — fighting back from a goal down to beat Chelsea 2-1 at the weekend to maintain a perfect record.

Tough opener for both sides

Napoli's Champions League record is modest despite playing at one of European football's most iconic venues. The Partenopei have reached the quarter-finals just once in their history, and their early-season form in Serie A gives little cause for optimism: Max Allegri's side have collected only three points from three matches, including a 3-2 defeat to Inter Milan after leading 2-0.

Former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay will miss this game while recovering from a minor heart operation. However, Kevin De Bruyne — who joined Napoli from Manchester City and has a strong record against Arsenal — is expected to feature.

For Arsenal, Ezri Konsa made his full debut against Chelsea and is likely to continue at centre back. Cristhian Mosquera remains a doubt due to the muscle injury that kept him out at the weekend.

How to watch

Viewers in Ireland can watch Napoli vs Arsenal for free on Virgin Media Two, with a live stream available through Virgin Media Play. In the UK, the match is broadcast on TNT Sports 2, with plans starting from £25.99 per month. US viewers can tune in on Paramount+, where the Essential package costs $8.99 a month. Australian fans can catch the action on Stan Sport, now priced at AU$29.99 per month.

Those travelling abroad can use a VPN service such as NordVPN to access their usual domestic stream from anywhere in the world.

Match prediction

Arsenal are the stronger side heading into this fixture and have the defensive solidity and attacking depth to claim three points in Naples. Expect the Gunners to come away with a 2-0 victory.