The Daily · Friday, 11 September 2026
Arsenal Conquer Chaos in Naples as Champions League Returns in Style
The Champions League returned on Friday, and it delivered a full evening of European football. The headline act came from Naples, where Arsenal overcame a five-hour flight delay to beat Napoli through Martin Ødegaard's second-half goal — their 13th successive victory in the competition's league stage. Mikel Arteta had spoken this week about deliberately disrupting his players' routines, heating dressing rooms and delaying meals, to build resilience; the travel chaos felt almost like one of his own exercises, and his side passed the test.
Elsewhere in the competition, Manchester United marked their return to European football's top tier with a comfortable 4-0 win over Sabah FC at Old Trafford, while Bayern Munich announced themselves with a 5-0 demolition of Bodø/Glimt, Jamal Musiala, Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Alphonso Davies all contributing to an emphatic opening night in Munich.
Off the pitch, Fenerbahce found themselves in the unusual position of having a head coach who had resigned but remained in post, with Ismail Kartal's departure unaccepted after their Roma tie. Fiorentina's Fabio Paratici, meanwhile, defended the club's decision to sack Grosso after just three matches, citing a loss of confidence in the dressing room.
The record
Kartal Remains Fenerbahce Head Coach Despite Resignation
Ismail Kartal is still head coach of Fenerbahce despite submitting his resignation following the club's Champions League match against Roma. The resignation has not been accepted or acted upon, leaving Kartal in place for the time being.
Paratici Explains Fiorentina's Decision to Sack Grosso After Three Games
Fiorentina sporting director Fabio Paratici has explained the club's decision to part ways with Grosso after just three matches in charge. Paratici cited a lack of confidence within the squad as the key factor behind the swift dismissal.
Pochettino Leaves Door Open for Tottenham Return While Leading USA
Mauricio Pochettino has revealed he would return to Tottenham Hotspur even if the club were relegated, framing his departure as a matter of timing rather than a permanent split. The admission raises questions about his long-term commitment to the United States manager role as a full World Cup cycle gets underway.
Morocco PM Tells Football Chief to Stop Promising 2030 World Cup Final
Morocco's prime minister has instructed the head of the country's football federation to stop making promises about hosting the 2030 World Cup final. The head of the Spanish football federation has also weighed in, stating the showpiece final should be played in Spain.