NaijNaira
Italy international Riccardo Calafiori has been sidelined from the team’s upcoming Nations League match against Israel on Monday, with the 22-year-old defender expected to return to Arsenal shortly for further assessment.
Calafiori started in Italy’s 3-1 victory over France on Friday, earning praise for his performance.
However, he was forced off during the second half after a collision with France’s Ousmane Dembele.
The incident appeared accidental, as Dembele tumbled and clipped the back of Calafiori’s leg, initially causing concern over a potential heel injury.
Subsequent reports have confirmed that Calafiori suffered bruising to his calf, prompting the decision for him to return to North London as a precaution.
Arsenal’s medical team will now oversee his recovery.
With Calafiori sidelined, Napoli centre-back Alessandro Buongiorno is likely to take his place in the starting lineup for Monday’s match.
Buongiorno came on as a substitute for Calafiori during Friday’s game against France.
Calafiori’s injury is not expected to be a serious one, but his early return to Arsenal will ensure he receives the necessary care before any further participation.
