Arsenal Flight to Naples Delayed by UK Air Traffic Disruption

Arsenal’s build-up to their opening Champions League fixture against Napoli was interrupted by widespread travel disruption at airports throughout the United Kingdom.

An air-traffic control problem caused a lengthy delay to Arsenal’s flight, forcing Mikel Arteta to cancel Tuesday’s pre-match press conference at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. After completing their usual morning training session, the manager and his squad reportedly remained at the club’s Hertfordshire base while waiting to depart.

Club officials maintained that the only change to the planned itinerary was a later-than-scheduled arrival at the team hotel. European football authorities also gave Arsenal permission to miss the compulsory press conference because of the disruption, which affected supporters travelling to Italy as well.

Jurriën Timber is expected to return to Arsenal’s squad for the first time since the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain on 30 May. The Netherlands defender, who missed the World Cup because of a groin injury that had troubled him since March, was described by Arteta as close to making his comeback before Sunday’s victory over Chelsea.

Cristhian Mosquera remains unavailable due to a muscular problem, while 17-year-old defender Marli Salmon, who signed his first professional contract last month, has been included in the 23-player squad.

Napoli ended last season second in Serie A behind Inter but have endured a disappointing start under new head coach Massimiliano Allegri. Kevin De Bruyne is likely to face Arsenal, although Scott McTominay will be absent after undergoing a successful procedure to correct an irregular heartbeat. The 29-year-old is expected to return to training within two weeks.

Napoli may also be without influential former Fulham midfielder André-Frank Zambo Anguissa as Allegri prepares for his first Champions League match in four years. Allegri said the city’s supporters are deeply passionate and that his side must begin winning again. He acknowledged Arsenal’s strength and Arteta’s impressive work, adding that Napoli would approach the contest with pride and determination.