Arsenal will have to play it’s first leg clash with Napoli from Italy at Emirates Stadium for as the order of their fixtures has been reversed .
That is because Chelsea were also drawn as the initial away side in their meeting with Slavia Prague.
Two London neighbours cannot compete at home on the same day and, as FA Cup holders, the Blues from Stamford Bridge have been given preference.
Maurizio Sarri will be hoping that, in his first season at the helm, Chelsea will have the job done before turning out in front of their own supporters – with his side yet to taste defeat in this season’s Europa League.
Unai Emery proved to be something of a specialist in the Uefa Europa League during his time in charge of Sevilla, claiming a hat-trick of successes.
He would, however, have been hoping to see current charges Arsenal avoid Napoli.
A notable scalp will now need to be secured if the Gunners are to remain on course in Europe and go at least one better than their semi-final showing from 2018.
Serie A opponents would also have preferred to avoid a trip to north London, but that is what they will be making in the first leg of a heavyweight showdown.
“Arsenal & Chelsea cannot play at home on the same night following a decision made by the relevant local authorities. Arsenal’s tie will be reversed in accordance with the UEFA Club Competitions Committee principles. The first leg against Napoli will therefore be in north London.” Read a Statement From UEFA.