Arsenal have been dealt a potential setback during the international break as defender Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury while on duty with Italy. The 22-year-old picked up the knock during Italy’s UEFA Nations League quarterfinal clash against Germany, which ended in a 2-1 defeat for the Azzurri on March 20, 2025.
Concerns Over Calafiori’s Fitness
The Italian defender appeared to be in significant discomfort after a challenge late in the game, raising fears that he could be sidelined ahead of Arsenal’s crucial upcoming fixtures. Although no official diagnosis has been made yet, the sight of Calafiori limping off the pitch has left Arsenal fans and Mikel Arteta worried.
The timing of the injury couldn’t be worse for the Gunners, who are set to face Fulham in the Premier League on April 1 before their massive UEFA Champions League quarterfinal clash against Real Madrid on April 8. Calafiori has been an important figure in Arsenal’s backline, and any potential absence could force Arteta to reshuffle his defensive options.
Key Player for Arsenal’s Run-In
Since joining the club in the summer, Calafiori has established himself as a key part of Arsenal’s defense, offering versatility and composure both as a center-back and as a full-back. His performances in the Champions League have been particularly impressive, making him a crucial asset as Arsenal prepare to take on European giants Real Madrid.
With the Gunners still competing for the Premier League title and Champions League glory, losing a player of Calafiori’s quality would be a huge blow. Arsenal already have injury concerns with key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli recovering from setbacks, and an injury to Calafiori would further stretch Arteta’s squad depth.
Waiting for an Official Update
Arsenal’s medical staff will now assess the extent of Calafiori’s injury once he returns to London, and the club is expected to provide an update soon. Until then, fans will be holding their breath, hoping that the injury is not serious and that the Italian defender will be fit in time for Arsenal’s crucial fixtures.
With the international break always posing a risk for club teams, Arsenal will be hoping that Calafiori’s setback is just a minor issue rather than a long-term problem. If he is ruled out, Arteta may have to look at alternative defensive options, with players like Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko potentially stepping up.
As Arsenal await further news, all eyes will be on the club’s medical team to determine whether Calafiori will be fit to return to action or if Arteta will have to navigate the coming weeks without one of his key defenders.