Chelsea have issued a strong safety warning to supporters travelling to Naples for Wednesday’s Champions League fixture, urging them to “exercise extreme caution” following an incident that left two fans requiring hospital treatment.
The club confirmed it is aware of an incident that occurred on Tuesday evening in the Italian city, which has a documented history of visiting supporters being targeted by Napoli ultras.
“Two fans are being treated in hospital, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries,” Chelsea said in a statement. “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.”
There has been no official confirmation regarding the circumstances that led to the injuries.
Approximately 2,500 Chelsea fans are expected to attend the match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Supporters have been advised to gather at designated meeting points, from where they will be transported to the stadium via shuttle buses under police escort.
In travel guidance issued earlier this month, Chelsea highlighted previous security concerns in Naples, noting that “during Uefa competition matches, attacks on away fans have sometimes occurred in the city.”
Fans have also been urged to limit movement around Naples, avoid travelling on foot, and refrain from wearing club colours or emblems that could identify them as Chelsea supporters.
On the pitch, the stakes are high for both sides. Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea require a victory to secure direct qualification to the Champions League last 16, while Napoli, last season’s Serie A champions, need a win to keep their European campaign alive.
