Napoli security crackdown ahead of Arsenal Champions League visit

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Sam Wilson | Last updated Sep 7, 2026 1:25 PM ET

Napoli are preparing heightened security measures ahead of their Champions League meeting with Arsenal, with around 1,500 travelling supporters expected from England.

According to TuttoMercatoWeb, the fixture has been designated as high risk from a public-order perspective, prompting increased attention from local authorities ahead of the match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Around 45,000 tickets have reportedly been sold for the European clash so far, with the pricing of Champions League tickets potentially contributing to the attendance falling short of a sell-out.

The arrival of a significant Arsenal following has nevertheless increased concerns over potential tensions between the two sets of supporters, particularly in central Naples before kick-off.

NAPLES, ITALY – MAY 23: SSC Napoli supporters celebrate before the last Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Cagliari that awards the 2024-2025 Scudetto on May 23, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Ivan Romano/Getty Images)

Authorities prepare for Arsenal arrival for Napoli clash

The focus will be on managing the movement of the travelling supporters and preventing clashes between rival fan groups throughout the day.

Napoli‘s supporters have been praised for the atmosphere they generate at their home stadium, and the club will hope the Maradona can provide a similar boost against Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, the immediate priority for authorities is ensuring the Champions League fixture passes without incident.

A further security meeting was scheduled for today, when the relevant authorities attempted to finalise the arrangements for managing the Arsenal contingent and maintaining public order across the city.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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