Arteta Expresses Concern Over Calafiori Injury Ahead Of Liverpool Clash.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that defender Riccardo Calafiori’s injury during the 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League is “a bit of a worry.” The Italian, who joined the Gunners from Bologna this summer in a deal worth up to £42 million, was forced off in the second half after appearing to twist his right knee.
Calafiori’s injury adds to Arsenal’s growing list of sidelined players, with key attackers Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka already out, alongside defender Jurrien Timber. Arteta said of Calafiori, “He felt something, he could not continue playing. It is a bit of a worry.”
The injury comes at a crucial time as Arsenal prepare to face Premier League leaders Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The Gunners, currently third in the table, will be looking to maintain their momentum in what promises to be a tough encounter.
Calafiori, who started at left-back against Shakhtar, played an integral role in Arsenal’s defence before his substitution. Oleksandr Zinchenko is an obvious replacement if needed at the weekend, though Arteta opted to bring on youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly when Calafiori was forced off during Tuesday’s match.
Former striker Chris Sutton believes Calafiori’s absence could be a significant blow for the Gunners in the upcoming clash. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Sutton said, “Calafiori will be a massive loss at the weekend. Arsenal are already missing key players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, and his injury adds to the pressure.”
Despite recent setbacks, including a disappointing defeat to Bournemouth, Arteta is confident his team will be ready to face Liverpool. “Now we have four days, and believe me on Sunday we will be flying,” the Arsenal boss said.
Former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson echoed the need for consistency from Arteta’s side. While praising goalkeeper David Raya and the defence for their recent clean sheets, Upson noted that Arsenal will need to improve their overall performances to compete with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City.
The Gunners have kept three consecutive clean sheets in the Champions League for the first time since 2007, but injuries and squad depth will be key concerns as they navigate this intense period of fixtures.
