Arsene Wenger’s side are currently in hot form, topping the Premier League table and winning their first Champions League tie away at an in-form Marseille. They host Napoli tonight in one of the most anticipated fixtures in the group stages by the neutrals. Here are five players the Gunners should be wary of coming up against Rafa Benitez’s Serie A side.
1) Marek Hamsik
The Slovakian is a right handful when he wants to be. Playing in the hole just behind the forwards, the 26-year-old exposes the pockets of space and rips through defenders with his fleet-footed dribbles or beautifully-thread passes. He has scored four goals in five appearances so far this season.
2) Jose Callejon
The Spaniard can play on either flank and has a real eye for goal. In his first six games as a Napoli player – he joined from Real Madrid in the summer – Callejon has scored three goals.
3) Gonzalo Higuain
Arsenal fans will know all too well about this fella. After drooling at the prospect of him representing an Arsenal shirt, he eventually chose the Italians over the north London outfit. The Argentine is recovering from injury, however, and is likely to be on the bench.
4) Dries Mertens
Although it’s not certain whether or not he will feature, the Belgian can destroy full-backs at will, and Carl Jenkinson – or Bacary Sagna will be praying that he doesn’t take part.
5) Lorenzo Insigne
One of the most exciting young attackers in Europe, Insigne is capable on either side of the pitch. His lightning speed and his creativity on the ball make him a real pain in the backside for opponents.