Riccardo Calafiori Injury Scare Leaves Arsenal Sweating Over Defender’s Fitness

Arsenal face concern after Riccardo Calafiori’s injury update reveals a hip issue sustained while training with Italy during the break.

Arsenal have received a worrying Riccardo Calafiori injury update after the defender suffered a hip problem while on international duty with Italy. The 23-year-old, who has quickly become one of Mikel Arteta’s most reliable defenders, trained separately from the Italian squad after feeling discomfort during their World Cup qualifier preparations.

Calafiori has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season, praised for his versatility, calmness, and ability to build from the back. His consistent form has been a key part of the Gunners’ impressive defensive record, but this setback now casts doubt over his availability for upcoming fixtures.

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Reports from Italy confirm that Calafiori will miss their clash against Moldova but hopes to recover in time for the crucial qualifier against Norway later this week. Italy’s medical team is keeping a close watch on his condition, while Arsenal staff are staying in contact to assess the severity of the issue.

Although Arsenal would have preferred Calafiori to return to London for immediate assessment, the defender has chosen to remain with the Azzurri in the hope of proving his fitness before the next match. His determination to continue training shows his commitment but also highlights the risk of aggravating the injury further.

Arsenal’s Growing Injury Concerns

This injury scare adds to Arsenal’s growing list of concerns. Mikel Arteta is already managing fitness issues for Gabriel Jesus, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli, leaving the Gunners short on depth ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.

If Calafiori’s injury persists, Arsenal could be forced into defensive reshuffling, with Ben White or Myles Lewis-Skelly likely to step in. Given the importance of maintaining stability at the back, losing Calafiori would be a significant blow — especially with the North London Derby against Tottenham approaching right after the international break.

What Calafiori’s Injury Means for Arsenal

In the short term, Calafiori’s absence from Italy’s first qualifier suggests he may require rest and rehabilitation before returning to club action. In the medium term, a lingering hip issue could force Arteta to adjust his tactical setup, particularly if Arsenal want to preserve their defensive momentum.

Arsenal will hope this Riccardo Calafiori injury proves to be minor rather than a recurrence of past fitness issues. Having already made 11 appearances, scoring once and assisting twice this season, the defender has established himself as a crucial part of Arsenal’s system — and his recovery will be vital to sustaining their title charge.

Arsenal’s title ambitions rely heavily on squad depth and fitness consistency. Calafiori’s hip injury is a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift during international breaks. While Italy remain optimistic about his recovery, Arsenal supporters will be anxiously monitoring updates, hoping their defensive star returns fit and ready for the Premier League’s decisive fixtures.

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