Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over the injury sustained by defender Riccardo Calafiori during their 1-0 Champions League win against Shakhtar Donetsk. The Italian left-back, who joined Arsenal in the summer for up to £42 million from Bologna, appeared to twist his right knee in the second half and was unable to continue.
Arteta acknowledged the severity of the situation, saying, “He felt something, he could not continue playing. It is a bit of a worry.” With Arsenal already missing key players like Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Jurrien Timber, the potential absence of Calafiori is another blow ahead of their crucial Premier League clash against league leaders Liverpool.
Calafiori, heavily involved in the game, made 42 passes from his tucked-in left-back position before being replaced by youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly. Oleksandr Zinchenko, who was on the bench, could be a likely replacement if Calafiori is sidelined.
Calafiori’s Absence Could Be Costly
Former Chelsea forward Chris Sutton commented on the potential impact of Calafiori’s injury: “It’s such an intense period. Injuries put pressure on the squad, and with Arsenal missing key players like Saka and Odegaard, Calafiori will be a massive loss at the weekend. He has been brilliant since joining and has the versatility to play in midfield.”
Arsenal, currently third in the Premier League, face Liverpool on Sunday, a match Arteta remains confident about despite recent injuries. He said, “We played two and a half days ago, but now we have four days. Believe me, on Sunday we will be flying.”
Pressure Mounting as Key Matches Loom
Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson added that while the team’s defense held up against Shakhtar, consistency is crucial to keep pace with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City. “David Raya and the defense answered the questions tonight, but Arsenal fans will be expecting more consistency if they are to challenge for the title,” Upson said.
