In a frustrating turn of events, Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has had to leave the Italy national team camp following a freak injury he sustained during their match against France on Friday night.
Injury Details
The 22-year-old defender was substituted in the second half after taking a hit to his ankle while Italy was leading 3-1.
The incident happened in a particularly unlucky moment when Ousmane Dembélé fell awkwardly after being challenged by Alessandro Bastoni, and his studs ended up making contact with Calafiori’s leg.
Calafiori was visibly in pain following the collision and had to be quickly removed from the game.
Initial thoughts suggested it was just an impact injury, but with Calafiori now returning to London for recovery, Arsenal fans are understandably worried.
Manager’s Statement
Italy’s head coach, Luciano Spalletti, tried to ease concerns after the match.
He mentioned, “We need to assess Riccardo, but with our staff, we have a good chance of having him back for the next game.”
Unfortunately, Calafiori will miss Italy’s next Nations League match against Israel on Monday at the Bozsik Arena.
Arsenal’s Upcoming Challenges
Arsenal’s next match after the international break will be the highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham. Manager Mikel Arteta is already facing challenges with a depleted squad.
In addition to Calafiori’s injury, the Gunners will be without Declan Rice due to suspension after his controversial red card against Brighton, and Mikel Merino is sidelined with an injury sustained during training.
Calafiori has only featured twice for Arsenal since joining in the summer, making brief appearances against Aston Villa and Brighton.
With five matches scheduled before the end of September across the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup, the team will need to navigate these hurdles carefully.
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