Napoli vs Chelsea – Predicted lineup and team news

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·28 de janeiro de 2026

Napoli vs Chelsea – Predicted lineup and team news

Napoli host Chelsea at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona tonight, aiming to avoid early elimination from the Champions League.

Antonio Conte’s side has moved into a precarious position, currently sitting 25th in the league phase table. The Partenopei have won just two of their seven European matches so far this season. Following a humbling 3–0 defeat to Juventus at the weekend, the pressure is on the manager to deliver a result against his former club. A failure to win could see the reigning Serie A champions exit the competition entirely.

Vídeos OneFootball

Napoli Team News

Antonio Conte manages a squad severely depleted by a growing list of senior injuries. Notably, influential midfielders Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour, and André-Frank Zambo Anguissa are all unavailable. Consequently, the manager must rely on a makeshift engine room to contain Chelsea’s high-pressing midfield. David Neres and Matteo Politano also remain on the treatment table following recent setbacks.

Alex Meret is expected to start in goal despite a recent shoulder issue. In defence, Alessandro Buongiorno will lead a back three that has remained relatively solid at home. Scott McTominay will play a vital role in both defence and attack after scoring four goals in five European games. Up front, Rasmus Højlund is likely to lead the line, while Romelu Lukaku could feature from the bench after returning to the squad.

Napoli Predicted Lineup

Napoli predicted XI: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Juan Jesus; Gutierrez, Lobotka, McTominay, Spinazzola; Vergara, Elmas; Højlund

When will the match kick off?

The Champions League league-phase fixture takes place at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday, 28 January 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 GMT.