Riccardo Calafiori shares seven-word message following Arsenal injury concern
Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori addressed fans on social media after an injury scare during Italy’s 3-1 victory over France.
The 22-year-old started in Friday’s UEFA Nations League game at Parc des Princes but was forced off with 20 minutes remaining due to a potential calf injury after colliding with Ousmane Dembele.
Italy’s coach, Luciano Spalletti, reassured Arsenal fans, saying the injury is being evaluated but there is optimism Calafiori will be available for the next game. “We need to assess Riccardo, but our staff is confident he could be ready for the next match,” Spalletti said.
Italy secured a 3-1 win with goals from Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi, and Giacomo Raspadori, putting them level on points with Belgium in League A’s group 2 after Belgium’s identical win over Israel.
On Saturday, Calafiori responded on social media to the team’s performance, making no mention of his injury, which suggests it’s not severe. He posted on Instagram, “What a performance, what a night! Bravi ragazzi.”
Italy will face Israel on Monday, and Calafiori is expected to return to Arsenal afterward to prepare for the North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur on September 15. Arsenal will be without Declan Rice and Mikel Merino due to suspension and injury for the match.
