Arsenal‘s new signing, Riccardo Calafiori, faces a race against time to be fit for Italy’s upcoming UEFA Nations League match after suffering an injury in their 3-1 victory over France.
The 22-year-old was forced off in the 71st minute following a collision with French winger Ousmane Dembele, raising concerns about his availability for Italy’s game against Israel on Monday night.
Calafiori, who was praised by the Italian media for his impressive performance before the injury, was taken off as a precaution after feeling discomfort in his right calf after Dembele landed on him.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the Italian national team subjected Calafiori to an MRI scan, and although no official communication has been made, initial reports suggest the injury is not serious, even though he was reportedly on crutches as per the article in the screenshot below.
Italy manager Luciano Spalletti provided an update following the match, stating: “Calafiori needs to be evaluated, but with our good doctors, there is a chance he can recover.”
Despite the injury scare, CdS report that the defender remained optimistic, leaving the stadium on crutches but in good spirits.
However, a final decision on his availability will be made after further assessment. “He is expected to make it,” they add.
The injury came after Calafiori’s standout performance at the Parc des Princes, where his ability to switch between defensive and attacking roles was crucial to Italy’s success.
La Gazzetta dello Sport hailed him as “among the best in Paris,” praising his ability to seamlessly integrate into Italy’s midfield rotation while maintaining his defensive duties as a left-sided centre-back.
The outlet described his performance as a “perfect snapshot” of Italy’s dynamic midfield, reminiscent of the systems used during Cesare Prandelli’s era.
If he does not make the cut for Italy’s next match, he is expected to be fit for Arsenal’s crucial North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur next weekend, barring any unexpected results from Italy or Arsenal’s tests.
His absence would be a significant blow to Mikel Arteta’s side, given the current injury situation within the squad.
Since joining Arsenal from Bologna this summer, the 22-year-old has shown why he was such a sought-after player during the transfer window.
