Riccardo Calafiori Returns to Arsenal After Hip Injury Ends Italy Duty

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori withdraws from Italy duty after a hip injury, returning to London as the club prepares for crucial fixtures.

Arsenal’s preparations for a crucial period of the season took a sudden turn as Riccardo Calafiori hip injury concerns grew, with the defender travelling back to London after failing to recover in time for Italy’s World Cup qualifier against Norway. His return shifts full attention to his fitness ahead of Arsenal’s biggest fixtures.

Calafiori joined Italy’s squad with a sore hip but still hoped to feature. After missing the win over Moldova, he pushed to be involved in the Norway match. Gennaro Gattuso praised his effort and professionalism before deciding that Calafiori needed to leave camp and focus on recovery.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Gattuso said:
“He tried, and we thank him for the professionalism and desire he’s shown.”

Calafiori’s commitment impressed the staff, but the risk outweighed the reward with such an important club run approaching.

Arsenal Confident Issue Is Minor

Arsenal’s medical team will run full tests at London Colney, but early signs point toward a minor problem. Mikel Arteta sees Calafiori as a vital part of his defensive structure, and the club wants him back to full strength quickly.

Calafiori has started every Premier League match this season and has helped anchor one of the league’s strongest back lines. His importance only grows with Tottenham, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea all on the horizon.

The situation fueled another round of discussion about national-team duty versus club responsibility. Reports suggest Arsenal wanted to manage the defender’s minutes carefully, while Gattuso encouraged his players to give everything for Italy during this break.

Calafiori handled the situation maturely. He honoured his call-up, trained, and pushed to play, but accepted the decision to return to London for treatment.

Arsenal fans will watch closely as updates arrive from London Colney. Arteta needs Calafiori available during this decisive period, and the defender wants to return as soon as his hip settles.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.