Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that defender Riccardo Calafiori will undergo additional tests to determine the exact nature of his knee injury. The Italian player was forced off during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League after a second-half incident in which he twisted his knee. Initial evaluations are ongoing, with Arteta explaining that a full assessment is still required.
Reports from Italy have provided some optimism, suggesting the injury may not be as serious as first feared. Indications point toward minor medial collateral ligament (MCL) damage, which could potentially allow the versatile defender to make a quicker return than anticipated.
Encouraging Signs from Past Recovery
Arteta highlighted that Calafiori’s previous recovery track record provides some reassurance. Earlier in the season, the defender encountered a significant injury concern but returned swiftly, managing to feature in the very next game. Arteta reflected on this precedent as a positive indicator for Calafiori’s current situation, though he remained cautious about the outcome of the latest tests.
“Last time, we were initially concerned it was a major injury, but he ended up back on the pitch just a few days later,” Arteta stated during a pre-match press conference. “So, we’ll have to wait for the results of these new assessments.”
Arsenal Face Uncertainty with Key Players
Arteta revealed that Calafiori’s potential availability for Arsenal’s weekend clash with Liverpool is uncertain, noting that the defender joins Jurrien Timber and Bukayo Saka as players currently in doubt for the fixture. The manager expressed hope that the club’s medical team might be able to clear some of them in time for the important Premier League match, though he acknowledged it remains uncertain.
