A Chelsea supporter has spoken of his shock after being stabbed and rushed to hospital ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League match against Napoli in Italy.
The fan, identified as Marcus, 22, said he and a group of fellow Chelsea supporters were attacked in central Naples by a large group believed to be Napoli ultras.
Recounting the incident, Marcus said the group had just turned a corner into a poorly lit area when they were confronted.
“It wasn’t exactly an alleyway, but it felt like one because there were no lights,” he said. “There were about 20 or 30 people, all dressed in black, walking towards us. As soon as we made eye contact, some people realised what was happening and ran immediately.”
Marcus said he was with about seven or eight friends at the time and described the attack as sudden and frightening.
“It was a shock. Everyone was shaken by the time we eventually found the police,” he said.
He explained that he did not initially realise he had been stabbed until he tried to escape.
“I was wearing shorts and they were covered in blood, with blood running down my leg. We think it was a screwdriver or maybe a blade. I didn’t really feel it at first, but when I started running away, my left cheek felt heavy. As soon as I touched it, my hand was full of blood.”
Chelsea later issued a warning to supporters via their social media channels, urging fans in Naples to remain vigilant.
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“The club is aware of an incident that took place on Tuesday evening in Naples,” the statement read. “Two supporters are being treated in hospital after sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. We remind all fans to exercise extreme caution while in the city and follow the guidance shared ahead of this fixture.”
Marcus said he received treatment in hospital between 11:00pm and 4:00am local time before reporting the incident to the police the following afternoon. Despite the ordeal, he said he still planned to attend the match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona but intended to leave Naples for Rome the next day.
The second injured supporter was also treated in hospital after reportedly being punched and kicked during the attack.
European football governing body UEFA has been contacted for comment.
