Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori
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Late changes to the defensive shape can leave a full-back covering a more advanced role once the result is already secure. Players who finish a match in an unfamiliar position often receive a quick check from the medical staff before leaving the pitch. Those moments tend to attract attention when the player then heads straight down the tunnel rather than joining the usual post-match routines.
The left side of the defence has already required several different combinations this season. Maintaining options who can shift between full-back and more attacking roles helps the side control games without disrupting the overall structure. Any fresh concern on that flank would place greater reliance on the remaining members of the back line.
Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates, with goals from Ezri Konsa and Gabriel. Riccardo Calafiori came off the bench at the hour mark and finished the game at left wing, with Noni Madueke dropping to left-back. He headed straight down the tunnel after the final whistle, having appeared in some discomfort during the closing stages.
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury late into the Premier League win over Everton. The Italian was named on the bench and came on at the hour-mark but was struggling in the final stages. Speaking after the game, Arteta said: “He [Calafiori] had a slight issue. We don’t know what it is. It seems very small.”
It is unclear exactly what issue caused Calafiori to be in pain but he did take a hefty hit to the ribs during one challenge. Calafiori looked set to start a third game in one week following comments from Arteta in his Friday press conference. When asked if Calafiori could play again from the off, he said: “Yeah, he’s ready. I think Ricci is in a different place because he had a full pre-season as well. And he’s been available for every match. And Piero, he’s trained with us and is available for tomorrow as well.”
Though Piero Hincapie was back, it was Myles Lewis-Skelly that was in the back four. He was later replaced by Calafiori midway through the second half but his cameo ended concerningly. Earlier in the clash, it looked as though a different defender had suffered an issue with Gabriel Magalhaes appearing to jar his knee. He received treatment and was captured clutching at his groin and hamstring but was able to continue.
Just minutes later, the Brazilian doubled Arsenal’s lead after a great cross into the back post by Ben White. Fellow centre-back Ezri Konsa had earlier put the Gunners in front, finishing from close-range after a corner caused chaos. Arteta made a number of changes to his starting XI with Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyokeres included from the off.
The manager’s description of the issue as slight offers some reassurance, yet further assessment will still be required. Arsenal face a busy run of fixtures and will hope the Italian is available again soon once the medical staff have completed their checks. Any update on his fitness will be monitored closely ahead of the next match.