Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over the injury sustained by Riccardo Calafiori during the Gunners’ narrow 1-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League. The Italian left-back, a summer signing from Bologna in a deal worth up to £42 million, was forced off the pitch after twisting his right knee midway through the second half.
With Arsenal already facing an injury crisis that has sidelined key players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Jurrien Timber, Calafiori’s situation adds another layer of difficulty for Arteta ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash with Liverpool. “He felt something and could not continue playing,” Arteta stated in his post-match press conference, labeling the injury as “a bit of a worry.” The Gunners, currently third in the Premier League, are set to face league leaders Liverpool on Sunday in a crucial fixture at the Emirates Stadium.
A Significant Loss for Arsenal’s Defense
Calafiori, who started as left-back against Shakhtar, has quickly become a key figure in Arteta’s defense, known for his versatility and tactical awareness. He completed 42 passes in the game, often positioning himself more centrally to support Arsenal’s buildup play. However, his exit early in the second half forced Arteta to bring on youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, leaving Arsenal’s defense vulnerable. While Oleksandr Zinchenko remains an obvious replacement, Calafiori’s absence could still prove to be a major loss.
Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton weighed in on the situation, stating that the Italian’s absence would be particularly felt against a high-flying Liverpool side. “Calafiori will be a massive loss at the weekend,” Sutton said. “He has been brilliant since joining Arsenal. He brings versatility, having the ability to operate in midfield as well. Losing him at such a crucial time puts more pressure on the squad, especially with injuries to other key players.”
Arsenal Facing Tough Schedule Amid Injury Crisis
Arsenal are in the midst of a packed fixture schedule, having to navigate seven matches in 23 days across multiple competitions. The injury to Calafiori adds to an already strained squad, with several key players either sidelined or recovering from recent international duties. This period began with a shocking defeat to Bournemouth, followed by an unconvincing win against Shakhtar, leaving fans and pundits questioning Arsenal’s ability to maintain consistency.
Despite these challenges, Arteta remains confident that his team will rise to the occasion when they face Liverpool. “We played two and a half days ago, and many of our players are coming off the back of international duties,” Arteta said. “Now we have four days to prepare, and believe me, on Sunday we will be flying.” However, former The Gunners defender Matthew Upson has warned that the team will need to improve its performances to compete at the highest level. “There are holes in that performance, and Arsenal will have to step up to keep pace with Liverpool and Manchester City,” Upson said.
Key Questions Arsenal Must Address Before Liverpool Clash
While Arsenal managed to secure a win against Shakhtar, their performance left many questions unanswered. Goalkeeper David Raya and the defense were solid, but inconsistencies in midfield and attack, exacerbated by injuries, have raised concerns about how the team will cope against Liverpool’s high-pressing, fast-paced style. Upson noted that the defensive resilience The Gunners showed won’t be enough to mask the team’s other weaknesses in the long run. “The defense did well, but eventually, that’s going to wear thin. They need consistent, all-round performances to stay competitive,” he added.
With Liverpool boasting a fully fit squad and in excellent form, Arsenal’s injury-hit team will need to find a way to adapt quickly. The upcoming match will not only test their physical capabilities but also their mental fortitude, as they look to keep pace with the Premier League’s top contenders. The Gunners’ ability to handle the pressure and deliver a cohesive performance will be crucial in determining their success in the weeks ahead.
