Chelsea Football Club has issued an urgent statement confirming that two supporters were attacked in Naples on Tuesday evening, ahead of the crucial Champions League clash against Napoli.
The two fans are currently receiving treatment in hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, following reports of a violent incident involving knives. Eyewitness accounts from Chelsea supporters describe being chased and assaulted by a group of around 25 Napoli ultras while heading to a bar in the city.
In an official post on their social media channels, Chelsea stated: “The club is aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday evening in Naples. Two fans are being treated in hospital, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The club would like to remind all supporters to exercise extreme caution whilst in the city and take note of the advice shared ahead of this fixture.”
The Blues had previously warned travelling fans about the potential risks in Naples, advising them to avoid wearing club colours, not to wander alone, and to use designated transport. A police-escorted shuttle service has been arranged for the 2,500 ticket-holding Chelsea supporters heading to the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium for Wednesday’s 9 p.m. local time kick-off.
The incident has cast a shadow over what was already a high-stakes match in the Champions League league phase finale. Chelsea, under manager Liam Rosenior, need a strong result to secure a top-eight finish and direct entry into the last 16, bypassing the play-off round. Napoli, managed by former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, are battling to stay in European competition.
The game marks a reunion with several ex-Blues figures, including Romelu Lukaku, who has returned to fitness, alongside other familiar faces at the Maradona Stadium.
Conte previewed the tie by acknowledging Chelsea’s ambition: “Chelsea are a club I know very well. Having been there, I understand their mentality, the investment and the ambition they always have. The fact they’re the reigning Club World Cup champions says a lot.”
Napoli has not yet issued any official comment on the fan incident, and local authorities have remained silent so far. Naples has a notorious history of tensions involving away fans during European fixtures, with similar clashes reported in recent years.
Chelsea’s statement serves as a stark reminder for all travelling supporters to prioritise safety amid the heightened atmosphere surrounding this pivotal encounter.