Arsenal Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are set to be highly active in the summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad following a title challenge disrupted by injuries. The Gunners have been without a recognised striker, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz ruled out for the season, while the team have also suffered defensive injuries this campaign.
Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu have endured lengthy spells on the sidelines, with White recently returning to action. Meanwhile, both Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori have missed crucial matches due to injuries. However, it is Calafiori’s recent setback that has raised significant concerns among Arsenal fans.
During Italy’s 2-1 defeat to Germany in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals, the defender was forced off in the 92nd minute with an apparent knee injury. While attempting to track back in defence, Calafiori slipped awkwardly, prompting fears of a serious issue.
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The former Bologna centre-back, who has become a key player for both Arsenal and the Italian national team, left the pitch unassisted—a positive sign—but the unnatural twisting of his left knee has sparked caution. Given his history of knee problems, both Arsenal and Italy are closely monitoring his condition.
Italy Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori suffered a knee injury against Germany on Thursday (Image credit: Getty Images)
Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti addressed the situation post-match, stating: “We still don’t know if he’s injured. Ricky feels something strange in his knee, but we still don’t know.”
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Calafiori will undergo further medical assessments in the coming hours to determine the extent of the injury. While the severity remains unclear, Arsenal and Italy will be hoping for positive news as both prepare for crucial fixtures in the coming months.
The Gunners will return to action next week in the Premier League against Fulham on April 1, but it is the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid that looms large for Arsenal. Europe’s premier competition represents their best chance of winning a trophy this season, as they have fallen 12 points behind Liverpool in the title race.
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