Arsenal hit by travel disruption before Napoli clash with Champions League press conference cancelled | OneFootball

Not the best start for Gunners’ Champions League preparations

Mikel Arteta was due to address the media in Naples on Tuesday night, previewing the opening match of Arsenal's European campaign.

However, air traffic control issues have delayed the Gunners' travel and it has been decided that a press conference will not be possible.

Significant delays across airports in the UK impacted the Arsenal squad, who are now not expected to arrive in Naples until 9:30pm local time.

While managers are obligated to address the media before their European fixtures, it is understood that Arsenal will not face punishment in this instance due to the mitigating factors.

Arsenal trained at their Sobha Realty training ground on Tuesday morning.

Jurrien Timber took part in that session and he has travelled with the squad to Naples.

The Dutchman is yet to feature this season but he has stepped up his recovery after groin surgery and is with the squad for Wednesday night's match.

Bruno Guimaraes also took part in that final training session, having recovered from the knock that he picked up at Villa Park.

The Brazilian was an unused substitute against Chelsea on Sunday but could play some part against Napoli.

Arsenal won all eight of their league-phase matches in the Champions League last season and will be eyeing another fast start this time.

After this trip to take on Napoli, Arsenal host Lille before facing their toughest fixture of this stage of the competition, away at Bayern Munich.