UCL: Mikel Arteta seen raging at three Arsenal stars during 1-0 win over Napoli

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta displayed his displeasure at three of his players during the Champions League win over Napoli on Wednesday night. The Gunners began the 2026-27 season strongly, claiming all eight of their European league matches last term, and started this campaign impressively with a 1-0 victory over Napoli in Italy.

Arsenal controlled the game, but their failure to capitalize on chances almost cost them the win until Martin Odegaard's well-timed goal in the 75th minute. Despite his enthusiasm upon returning to north London, Arteta was visibly upset with three of his players for not doing enough to secure the three points. TNT Sports co-commentator Lucy Ward noted Arteta's frustration with Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, and Christos Tzolis, who were not quick enough in closing down after a Napoli counterattack.

"Mikel Arteta was absolutely furious on the sidelines that Havertz, Madueke and Tzolis weren't recovering after that attack," she observed. "It was quite notable. As the Arsenal attack concluded, those three seemed to stroll back, and Mikel Arteta sprinted down the sidelines, shouting at them to get back into position." Having won all five matches in the 2026-27 season opener, Arsenal now stand with an impressive record in their Champions League debut.