Italy manager gives Riccardo Calafiori injury update | OneFootball

Arsenal‘s new signing Riccardo Calafiori is expected to be fit for the crucial North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur despite suffering an injury during Italy‘s 3-1 victory over France in the Nations League.

The 22-year-old left-back, who joined from Bologna this summer, was forced off in the 71st minute after an accidental collision with Ousmane Dembele.

Italy’s defender #05 Riccardo Calafiori lies on the football pitch during the UEFA Nations League Group A2 football match between France and Italy at the Parc des Princes in Paris on September 6, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

During a press conference following the match, Italy coach Luciano Spalletti provided an update on Calafiori’s condition with an eye on their match against Israel on Monday.

“Calafiori needs to be evaluated, but with our good doctors, there is a chance he can recover,” Spalletti said.

Calafiori was hit on the calf by Dembele as the French winger fell, forcing the defender to be substituted after trying to run it off.

Despite initial concerns over a potential calf or ankle injury, reports now suggest Calafiori’s issue is not as severe as first feared.

Arsenal’s medical team will continue to monitor his recovery closely, but early indications are positive.

With the first North London derby of the season looming next weekend, this news will be a relief for Mikel Arteta, who is already dealing with a depleted squad.

Calafiori’s potential absence would have been a blow to Arsenal, especially with Mikel Merino already sidelined due to a shoulder injury and Declan Rice suspended. Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are also still out but Gabriel Jesus might make a return.

However, it appears Arsenal’s summer signing could be available for the clash against their fierce rivals.

PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 06: Mateo Retegui of Italy competes for the ball with William Saliba of France during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between France and Italy at Parc des Princes stadium on September 06, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

The injury scare overshadowed an historic night for Italy, who secured their first win in Paris in over 70 years.

After falling behind to a goal from Bradley Barcola in the first 12 seconds, the Azzurri responded through goals from Federico Dimarco, Frattesi, and Giacomo Raspadori.

The match also saw William Saliba struggle in France’s defence, particularly during Italy’s second and third goals, which exposed the team’s vulnerabilities.

For Arteta, who has integrated Calafiori slowly into Arsenal’s setup since his arrival, this injury scare highlights the fragility of the Gunners’ squad depth as they approach a series of challenging fixtures.

Calafiori has impressed with his adaptability and attacking ability from the left-back position, and his availability for the derby will be crucial.