Arsenal learn extent of Calafiori’s injury blow amid crucial run-in | OneFootball

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has been sent home early from Italy’s training camp after sustaining a knee injury that could sideline him for several weeks. The 22-year-old slipped while attempting a quick change of direction toward the end of Italy’s 2-1 loss to Germany in the UEFA Nations League A quarter-final first leg. He was visibly in discomfort, clutching his left knee.

Calafiori is now ruled out of the second leg against Germany and is expected to miss a few of Arsenal’s upcoming matches as well. His absence adds to Mikel Arteta’s growing injury concerns, with the season reaching its decisive phase.

According to Corriere dello Sport, medical tests confirmed a lesion to the collateral ligament in his left knee, classified between the first and second degree. His estimated recovery time is between two and three weeks.

The Italian national team released a statement confirming his withdrawal: "Riccardo Calafiori, who underwent tests late this morning after sustaining an injury to his left knee during yesterday's match against Germany, has been deemed unavailable for Sunday's second leg and will return to his club."

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti addressed the situation, saying: "We don’t know the extent of Calafiori’s injury yet. His knee feels strange, and he himself can't fully explain what he feels. Unfortunately, his stud came off while he was trying to recover a pass."

This is Calafiori’s third knee-related setback this season, having previously missed time with similar issues. He also endured a lengthy layoff during his spell at AS Roma due to knee injuries. His latest setback puts his availability for Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid in doubt.