Chelsea Football Club has issued a stark warning to its travelling supporters, urging them to exercise extreme caution while in Naples, Italy. This urgent advisory comes after two Chelsea fans were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries following a violent incident on Tuesday evening, just ahead of the crucial Champions League group stage match against Napoli.
Hospital Treatment for Injured Supporters
The club confirmed the incident via an official statement on their social media platform, X. "The club is aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday evening in Naples," the statement read. "Two fans are being treated in hospital, having sustained non-life-threatening injuries." While details remain limited, the club emphasised the seriousness of the situation by directly addressing all fans travelling for the match.
Reports of Knife Threats and Ultra Violence
On social media, several Chelsea supporters reported alarming encounters with local Napoli ultras. One post described a group of Napoli ultras pulling knives on Chelsea fans, with another claiming a supporter had been stabbed. These unverified accounts have contributed to a tense atmosphere in the city, prompting the club's public safety warning.
"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," Chelsea's statement continued. This advice likely includes guidance on safe travel, areas to avoid, and behaviour around the stadium.
High-Stakes Match at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium
The warning casts a shadow over what should be a thrilling European night of football. Napoli host Chelsea at the iconic Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Wednesday night in the final round of Champions League group games. For Chelsea, the match is critical as they aim to secure a top-eight finish in the league phase, which would guarantee a coveted spot in the competition's last 16.
Historical Context of Football Rivalries
Unfortunately, incidents of fan violence, particularly involving ultras groups, are not uncommon in European football, especially during high-profile Champions League ties. Clubs often issue safety advisories, but the explicit call for extreme caution underscores the perceived severity of the threat in Naples. The safety of travelling supporters remains a paramount concern for clubs and tournament organisers alike.
Chelsea's management and security teams are undoubtedly working closely with local authorities in Naples and UEFA to monitor the situation and ensure fan safety before, during, and after the match. All eyes will be on Naples, not just for the football, but for the hope of a peaceful and secure event for everyone involved.
