The club continues to work closely with PAOK, UEFA, the Metropolitan Police, Greek authorities and our travel partners to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all Chelsea supporters attending the game. The Greek police have provided some important information in advance of the match of which our fans should be aware.

The match promises to be an exciting fixture as we return to European competition for the 2018/19 season. As with other European away matches, we will be operating a ticket collection point in Thessaloniki. The location and times of opening will be notified in due course to everyone who buys a ticket from the club. All supporters must collect their tickets from the ticket collection point and it is important that all ticket purchasers thoroughly read and understand the subsequent advice that will be issued for this fixture, including very important information on bus transportation.

The local police strongly insist supporters make use of coaches which will operate from the centre of the city to and from the Toumba Stadium. This is the only method of travel to the stadium that will be permitted for visiting supporters. No travel individually to or from the stadium will be allowed so should not be contemplated or undertaken by Chelsea fans.

The time fans spend on this transport may be considerably longer than the journey time itself. Please plan for no toilet facilities or refreshments being available.

We appreciate these transport stipulations and conditions are irregular for our travelling supporters. Chelsea Football Club has absolutely no control over the organisation and implementation of the bus travel or the stadium stewarding. Although representatives of the Metropolitan Police and Chelsea’s security staff will be present in Thessaloniki, it will only be to observe and they will have no operational role.

Chelsea supporters are advised not to wear club colours at the airport, outside of the stadium or around the city of Thessaloniki.

We are grateful to the Greek authorities for making us aware of their stipulations well in advance of the game but we strongly advise that this match will not be appropriate for all of our supporters to attend. Therefore we ask you to carefully consider before purchasing tickets for this game. Supporters on the UEFA away ticket scheme who do not purchase a ticket for this match will NOT be removed from the scheme.

As always, we ask our fans to behave sensibly and respect our hosts, and any anti-social behaviour or chanting will be challenged. If necessary, we will provide information updates for supporters via our official Twitter account.

At the stadium, all supporters will be subjected to a full body search and ticket check before entering. Bags and other large items will not be admitted to the stadium. Greek authorities have advised that a cloakroom facility will be provided to store these items if required but the club advises it may be much more convenient if such bags and large items are not brought to the stadium.

Seating in the away section of the stadium will not be reserved, and after the game visiting fans will be required by police to remain in place for approximately 30 to 45 minutes before boarding coaches for departure.

We thank supporters for their understanding and cooperation on these matters as we work to deliver an enjoyable experience for everybody.

