Arsenal are the latest European heavyweights to be handed an injury scare as one talented player has returned from the international break prematurely due to a fitness issue.
That man is Riccardo Calafiori, the highly-rated Italian defender who joined the Gunners from Bologna over the summer following spectacular 2023-24 Serie A and Euro 2024 campaigns.
However, he suffered an unfortunate injury while playing for Italy in their thrilling UEFA Nations League showdown with France on Friday, which the four-time World Cup winners won 3-1.
The 22-year-old started the game but was taken off in the second half after taking a blow to the ankle after Ousmane Dembele unfortunately crashed into the defender off the back of a Bastoni challenge.
Spalletti attempted to ease everyone's fears, stating that the Arsenal ace could be back in time for Monday's UEFA Nations League match against Israel. However, he has now left the squad and is returning to London to begin his recovery.
Fortunately, Calafiori's issue is not thought to be serious. However, this does not matter as Arsenal have tricky fixtures on the horizon.
Riccardo Calafiori leaves Italy camp as the staff will take no risk after his injury against France.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 8, 2024
Calafiori will return to London and he will be assessed by #AFC medical staff. pic.twitter.com/w7rrhs4yrt
Arteta's men face Tottenham this weekend in the first North London Derby of the season. After that fixture, Saka and Co. travel to Atalanta to kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign before visiting title rivals Manchester City in the league.
While Calafiori has made his competitive debut for Arsenal, the Italian has not started a single game. As a result, his adaption period could be delayed as a result of this knock.
Furthermore, Jurien Timber limped off the pitch in the Gunners' 1-1 draw with Brighton right before the break, meaning the club could do without further injuries.
The London giants are without summer signing Mikel Merino who is likely to be sidelined until October after suffering a should injury in his first Arsenal training session. Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, could return for the North London Derby but is currently recovering from a groin issue.
