On Wednesday, TuttoSport reported Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori is suffering from a hip injury.
As a result, the defender trained separately from the Italian national side. He wasn’t expected to play for the Azzurri in the upcoming game against Moldova.
Italy manager Rino Gattuso has been asked about potential injuries ahead of the match on Thursday evening. The manager expressed his gratitude towards the Arsenal player and others for their commitment, despite various fitness concerns.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the ex-midfielder said, via FCInterNews: “In my opinion, this training camp wasn’t easy; they’ve already qualified, there are some minor aches and pains, and so many other things.”
Speaking specifically about Calafiori and teammates Nicolo Barella and Alessandro Bastoni, Gattuso said: “Instead, I have to thank Barella, Calafiori, and Bastoni. I can say a lot, but it wasn’t a given, and I have to congratulate the lads for the professionalism and desire they’re showing day after day.”
The 23-year-old has started every Premier League game so far this season. This wasn’t the case in the 2024/25 campaign, as the Italian faced multiple injury worries.
In the past, Calafiori has had multiple serious injuries. That’s why it’s important to be cautious, but also why he’ll want to play for Italy when he can.
Mikel Arteta will have an eye on Italy over the next few days.