Arsenal’s versatile defender Riccardo Calafiori was forced off with a freak injury in Italy’s 3-1 victory against France on Friday.
Calafiori, who joined Arsenal this summer, was called up for international duty for the Azzurris in their opening UEFA Nations League game vs. the French. Although he had an impressive performance, the 22-year-old defender saw himself leave the field due to an injury.
The defender picked up an injury when Ousmane Dembele caught him on the back of his calf and ankle with his studs after being lunged into a tackle by another player. Although he tried continuing to play with the injury, he was replaced quickly in the 70th minute of the game as they didn’t want to aggravate the injury.
Riccardo Calafiori injury update
Italy coach Luciano Spalletti explained in the post-match interview that there is a chance for Calafiori to return to face Israel on Monday. Spalletti said, “We need to assess Riccardo but with our staff, we’ve a good chance to have him back with us for the next game.”
The defender is already expected to be unable to return to the Azzurris next clash against Israel since Spalletti’s last confirmation on Calafiori’s injury and is expected to head back to London and get assessed by Arsenal’s medical staff
⚪️ Riccardo Calafiori leaves Italy camp as the staff will take no risk after his injury against France.
Calafiori will return to London and he will be assessed by #AFC medical staff. pic.twitter.com/w7rrhs4yrt
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 8, 2024
What effect would this have on the Gunners
An injury concern and not-so positive news will always not be welcomed. Considering the amount of injuries Arsenal have been asked to dwell into: Mikel Merino, Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and additionally Declan Rice, who is suspended for the next PL game, Mikel Arteta will hope for Calafiori’s quick recovery.
The Gunners surely have the depth with the games coming their way, but the inclusion of Calafiori in the starting XI in a difficult patch of games to come will be a huge boost for the Mikel Arteta side.
Arsenal travel away to Tottenham Hotspur, away to Atalanta mid week in the UCL and also the big game against Guardiola’s Man City, all in a timeframe of 7 days.