Riccardo Calafiori injury
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have been handed a timely lift ahead of the new Premier League season, with reports suggesting Riccardo Calafiori is on course to be fit for next weekend’s opener against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The 23-year-old Italian, who joined the Gunners from Bologna for £42 million in July 2024, is set to undergo a late fitness test ahead of Saturday’s Emirates Cup clash with Athletic Club. Sources close to the club indicate the defender is progressing well after a minor muscular injury sustained during a pre-season friendly against Newcastle United.
Calafiori’s recovery comes as welcome news for Mikel Arteta, whose pre-season preparations have been disrupted by a string of injury concerns. The versatile defender, comfortable at both centre-back and left-back returned to training earlier this week, easing fears of a lengthy layoff.
READ MORE: Alan Smith urges Arsenal to cash in on £45m star instead of Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard
“Riccardo Calafiori is expected to be fit to face Manchester United at Old Trafford next weekend,” a source confirmed, adding that his condition will be assessed again before Arsenal’s final warm-up fixture.
🚨Riccardo Calafiori is expected to be fit to face Manchester United at Old Trafford next weekend.
The Italian will face a late fitness test ahead of the game against Athletic Club tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/XiYuPC5LSb
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) August 8, 2025
The Gunners have faced a challenging summer on the fitness front, with Gabriel Magalhaes, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz also nursing injuries.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Arteta offered a cautiously optimistic update earlier in the week, saying: “The three that we lost during the tour were Big Gabi, Leo, and Richy, and for Saturday, I think both of them have a chance, if everything in the next few days evolves in the way that it’s been evolving.”
Calafiori, who caught the eye with his performances for Italy at Euro 2024, has already impressed in Arsenal colours during pre-season. Despite being forced off shortly after half-time in the 3-2 win over Newcastle, his athleticism, technical quality, and versatility have quickly made him a fan favourite. The defender reassured supporters via Instagram following the knock, signalling his determination to return swiftly.
Arteta will hope to have Calafiori available as Arsenal aim to start their Premier League campaign strongly when they travel to Manchester United on August 17.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal dominate Premier League with unrivaled player market values