Arsenal Star Suffers Major Injury Blow on International Duty | OneFootball

Arsenal Injury Update: Riccardo Calafiori’s Champions League Race Against Time

Arsenal fans are holding their breath as Riccardo Calafiori’s injury threatens to sideline the talented defender for a crucial period. The Italian international has withdrawn from the national squad after sustaining a knee injury during Italy’s Nations League clash with Germany, raising concerns over his availability for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid.

Calafiori’s Injury Blow

Riccardo Calafiori’s injury occurred during Italy’s 2-1 defeat to Germany in the Nations League quarter-final first leg. The 22-year-old suffered the setback while attempting to intercept a pass, with his left knee buckling awkwardly beneath him. He was immediately treated on the pitch and later seen limping through the mixed zone at San Siro, admitting to reporters, “I still don’t know,” when asked about the severity of the injury.

Photo: IMAGO

Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the injury, stating:

“We don’t know yet, he said his knee feels strange, but cannot answer more precisely than that, so we’ll have to see. Unfortunately, his studs slipped as he went to cut out a pass.”

The Italian Football Federation confirmed that Calafiori underwent tests the following morning and will return to Arsenal, ruling him out of Italy’s second-leg decider against Germany in Dortmund.

Arsenal’s Concerns Ahead of Real Madrid Clash

The injury update has sent shockwaves through the Arsenal camp, as Calafiori is now racing against time to be fit for the crucial Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid on April 8. Reports from Italy suggest that Calafiori may have damaged his collateral ligament, potentially ruling him out for two to three weeks.

If that timeline holds, the defender would miss Arsenal’s next fixture against Fulham on April 1 and face a battle to be ready for the showdown with the reigning Champions League holders at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal will not have another match until the Real Madrid clash due to their early FA Cup exit, giving Calafiori precious recovery time.

Defensive Dilemma for Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly be pondering his defensive options as he prepares for one of Arsenal’s biggest games of the season. Calafiori’s absence could force the manager to rely on Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba as the central defensive partnership.

However, with Arsenal’s recent injury woes, including the unexpected absence of Jurrien Timber, Arteta might be left short-handed. The manager may have to consider deploying Ben White in the centre or handing a rare opportunity to Rob Holding.

The timing of Calafiori’s injury is particularly frustrating, as the young Italian has been in fine form since joining Arsenal from Bologna. His combination of pace, defensive solidity, and ability to play out from the back has made him an essential cog in Arteta’s plans.

Hope for a Swift Recovery

Although the current prognosis remains uncertain, there is hope that Calafiori’s injury may not be as severe as initially feared. Arsenal’s medical staff will conduct further assessments once the player returns to London, and fans will be eagerly awaiting updates.

With Real Madrid’s attacking prowess posing a significant threat, Arsenal will need their defensive lines to be as strong as possible. Calafiori’s potential absence could put additional pressure on Arteta’s tactical approach and force a reshuffle in the backline.

For now, the Gunners must remain cautiously optimistic as they await definitive news on Calafiori’s fitness. Arsenal supporters will be hoping that their promising young defender can make a speedy recovery and bolster the team’s chances of overcoming Real Madrid on their path to European glory.