Arsenal’s preparations for their Champions League opener against Napoli have been disrupted after widespread air-traffic problems delayed the team’s journey to Italy.
The disruption also forced the cancellation of Mikel Arteta’s mandatory pre-match press conference, adding an unusual twist to an already important European fixture.
Despite the problems, Arsenal eventually arrived in Naples and maintained their focus ahead of Wednesday’s showdown.
The Gunners enter the game in excellent domestic form, having won their opening three Premier League matches. Their defensive record has also been impressive, although Arteta still has injury concerns to manage.
William Saliba remains sidelined with a back injury, while Cristhian Mosquera is a doubt. Jurriën Timber, however, is nearing a return after missing the opening weeks of the campaign.
Arsenal face a Napoli side that will be without former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay. The Scotland international recently underwent a successful procedure for a mild heart arrhythmia and is expected to spend around two weeks resting before returning to training.
That absence could be significant for Napoli.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will be expected to demonstrate why they remain one of Europe’s strongest sides.
The travel disruption may have complicated their preparations, but Arteta’s message will be simple: excuses do not matter once the whistle blows.
Naples awaits — and Arsenal are expected to respond like Champions League contenders.