Napoli’s Champions League campaign hangs by a thread as they prepare for a decisive showdown against Chelsea on Wednesday. The Italian champions, grappling with a severe injury crisis and a faltering Serie A title defense, find themselves in a precarious position with only eight points from seven matches. Last week’s disappointing 1-1 draw against FC Copenhagen has left them just inside the elimination zone, making victory against Chelsea essential to secure a spot in next month’s play-offs.
The challenge is formidable. Chelsea, managed by former Napoli coach Antonio Conte, also requires a win to secure direct qualification for the last 16, setting the stage for a high-stakes tactical battle. Napoli’s morale is further dampened by a recent 3-0 defeat to Juventus, which left them trailing Serie A leaders Inter Milan by nine points.
Manager Conte, who took charge in June 2024, faces an unprecedented injury crisis that has plagued the team since the season’s outset. Key players including Romelu Lukaku, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Kevin De Bruyne, and Andre-Frank Anguissa have been sidelined with various injuries, severely limiting Conte’s options. Lukaku’s return offers a glimmer of hope, having been included in Napoli’s European squad as a replacement for the injured De Bruyne. The Belgian striker now has an opportunity to redeem himself against Chelsea, where he previously struggled.
Conte emphasized the team’s resilience despite these challenges, stating, ‘We’re navigating in open waters with very high waves, but we’re not getting off the boat. These players are jeopardizing their physical health, playing every three days without proper training rotations.’
Historically, 11 points have been sufficient to avoid elimination in the Champions League group stage. A victory against Chelsea would likely secure Napoli’s progression and provide much-needed relief for a squad battling both physical and psychological pressures.