Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphasized the importance of a strong start as the team begins its new Champions League campaign against Napoli on Wednesday. After narrowly missing out on the title last season—falling to Paris Saint-Germain in the final on penalties—Arsenal are aiming to build on their recent European consistency with a repeat deep run in the competition.
Arteta pointed to the team’s sustained level of performance over the past seasons, highlighting their unbeaten record in 90 minutes during both the group stages and knockout rounds. He said that maintaining this consistency and adhering to the club’s identity will be crucial for achieving success in the tournament.
“Start well tomorrow,” Arteta said ahead of the clash in Naples. “That is the only thing we can do. Start with a big performance to increase the probability of winning the game.” He further expressed confidence that with their style of play and determination, Arsenal are capable of lifting the European Cup after two decades.
Napoli head coach Massimiliano Allegri praised Arsenal as one of Europe’s elite teams, acknowledging the prestige and pressure that comes with competing in the Champions League. With Arsenal entering the match on the back of three consecutive league victories, including a notable London derby win against Chelsea, Allegri recognized the challenge his side faces.
“Being in Europe gives you even more stimuli,” Allegri said. “It gives you more adrenalin – and also because we will face the best.” However, he also underscored the significance of squad fitness in progressing deep into the tournament. Napoli will be without Scott McTominay for the fixture, and Allegri stressed the importance of keeping key players available during the demanding Champions League schedule.
Arteta has overseen changes to Arsenal’s medical team in an effort to improve player fitness, recently appointing Arnaldo Abrantes as the head of sports medicine to replace Zafa Iqbal. He hopes that the renewed focus on conditioning will help the squad sustain their form throughout the season.
Napoli’s recent domestic form has been inconsistent, suffering two defeats in their opening three league games, including a late loss to Inter Milan on Sunday. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s solid start to their Premier League campaign has given Arteta confidence in maintaining the team’s momentum.
“Yeah, that puts us in a really good situation,” Arteta said, referring to the team’s energy and confidence. “The more the energy and the confidence around the team is high, that’s what we have to show on that pitch.”
As Arsenal prepare to take on Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, both managers are aware of the stakes involved in Europe’s premier club competition and the long road still ahead toward the ultimate prize.