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Arsenal’s new signing Riccardo Calafiori faces a race against time to be fit for Italy’s next UEFA Nations League match after picking up an injury in Italy’s 3-1 win over France.
The 22-year-old was forced off the pitch in the 71st minute following a collision with France winger Ousmane Dembele, raising concerns over his availability for Italy’s game against Israel on Monday night.
Calafiori, who was praised by the Italian media for his impressive performances before his injury, was taken off as a precaution after feeling discomfort in his right calf after Dembélé landed on him.
According to Corriere dello SportThe Italian national team has undergone an MRI scan on Calafiori, and while no official communication has been made, initial reports suggest that the injury is not serious, although he was reportedly on crutches as indicated in the article in the screenshot below.
Italy coach Luciano Spalletti gave an update after the match, saying: “Calafiori needs to be examined, but with our good doctors there is a chance he can recover.”
Despite the injury fear, CdS reports that the defender remained optimistic, leaving the stadium on crutches but in good spirits.
However, a final decision on its availability will be made after further evaluation. “It is expected to be available,” they added.
The injury came after Calafiori’s outstanding performance at the Parc des Princes, where his ability to switch from a defensive to an attacking role was crucial to Italy’s success.
La Gazzetta dello Sport hailed him as “one of the best in Paris”, praising his ability to fit seamlessly into the Italian midfield rotation while retaining his defensive duties as a left centre-back.
The outlet described his performance as a “perfect snapshot” of Italy’s dynamic midfield, reminiscent of the systems used in the Cesare Prandelli era.
If he is not selected for Italy’s next game, he should be fit for Arsenal’s crucial north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur next weekend, barring any unexpected results from either Italy or Arsenal’s tests.
His absence would be a major blow for Mikel Arteta’s side given the current injury situation within the squad.
Since joining Arsenal from Bologna in the summer, the 22-year-old has shown why he is such a sought-after player during the transfer window.
