Arsenal will start their Champions League campaign with an away match against Napoli on September 8. UEFA released the full fixture list for the competition's new league phase this week, with the Gunners' schedule confirmed as reported by Yahoo Sports.
Mikel Arteta's side, currently third in the Premier League with three points from one win, will travel to the Stadio Maradona for their opening European fixture. The club heads into the match with a perfect defensive record so far this season, having scored three goals and conceded none. Their next domestic task is a trip to face Aston Villa on August 31, before attention turns to Europe.
What is Arsenal's full Champions League schedule?
Following the opener in Naples, Arsenal's European commitments continue in October. They are scheduled to host Villarreal on October 13 before welcoming Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt to the Emirates Stadium on October 20. A significant test awaits on November 24 with an away fixture against reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. The Gunners will conclude the league phase with matches against pot-4 opponents Sabah, away, and Viking at home.
This fixture list presents a challenging path, with the away day at Manchester City standing out as a key benchmark. The team's current league standing, three points behind City, adds extra intrigue to that November clash. Fans can track the evolving calendar on our dedicated fixtures page.
How does Napoli shape up for the opener?
The opening opponent, Napoli, will be led by coach Max Allegri. Their schedule also includes a visit from Villarreal in October and a home match against Bodo/Glimt. For Arsenal, the trip to Italy represents a tough start, but one the squad will be eager to navigate successfully as they aim to build momentum in the competition.
Arsenal's squad depth will be tested, especially given several key absences. The current injury list includes attackers Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, defender Jurriën Timber, and midfield anchor Bruno Guimarães. Central defender William Saliba is also sidelined. The latest availability updates are always listed on our injuries page.
What is the context of other big fixtures?
The release also highlighted major matches for other Serie A clubs. Inter Milan, for instance, begin their campaign with a poignant return to the Santiago Bernabéu to face Real Madrid and their coach José Mourinho. It was the scene of their 2010 Champions League final victory under Mourinho, which remains the last time an Italian club won the trophy. Roma start away at Fenerbahçe, a club featuring former Roma striker Romelu Lukaku and ex-Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi.
Cesc Fàbregas's Como will make their Champions League debut at home to RB Leipzig. Fàbregas's return to Barcelona with Como is slated for the final round on January 27, 2027. These storylines add layers of narrative to a revamped competition format.
What comes next for Arsenal?
Immediate focus for Arsenal shifts to maintaining their strong domestic start against Aston Villa. The European opener then follows swiftly, posing an early examination of the team's credentials on the continent. Balancing Premier League ambitions with a deep Champions League run will require managing the squad carefully through a congested period, particularly with the current injury situation. The team's early defensive solidity provides a positive foundation as they prepare for a demanding schedule across both competitions.
