Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief after recent reports confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori’s injury isn’t as serious as initially feared. The 22-year-old defender had to be taken off during Italy’s 3-1 victory against France in the UEFA Nations League on September 6, following an injury he sustained in the 70th minute.
This caused concern among both the Italian national team and Arsenal supporters, especially with the critical north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur coming up after the international break.
Fortunately, the Italian medical team has provided encouraging updates. What was initially thought to be a significant injury that could have kept Calafiori out for weeks now seems to be less severe. Italy’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, helped ease these concerns by stating that Calafiori’s injury isn’t as serious as first suspected. He also mentioned that there is a possibility Calafiori might even be fit enough to feature in Italy’s next match against Israel on September 9.
This positive news will surely come as a relief to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the fans, as it hints that Calafiori could be available sooner than expected. If he’s fit for Italy’s next game, there’s a chance he could also be ready for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures, including the much-anticipated derby against Tottenham on September 15.
Since his arrival at Arsenal, Calafiori has shown promise but hasn’t yet secured a consistent spot in the starting eleven. He has played in two of Arsenal’s three Premier League matches this season but hasn’t started any. Arteta has primarily opted for Dutch international Jurrien Timber at left-back, who, despite being a center-back by trade, has adapted well to the role.
Timber’s versatility, which allows him to shift into midfield when Arsenal is in possession, has made him a key player for Arteta, leaving Calafiori as a backup option. However, Calafiori’s ability to play both left-back and central defense remains a valuable asset, especially in the event of injuries to key players like Gabriel or William Saliba.
With the competition for the left-back position fierce—given that Oleksandr Zinchenko is also an option—Arteta may choose to be cautious with Calafiori’s recovery. Depending on his fitness, the coach might rest him for the derby to preserve his long-term health. Nonetheless, the positive injury update regarding Calafiori offers optimism for both Arsenal and Italy as they prepare for important upcoming matches.
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