Riccardo Calafiori Injury: Progress & Return date for Arsenal defender

  • Riccardo Calafiori has a knee injury
  • The injury has forced him to miss out on two Arsenal matches
  • Jurrien Timber could be used to replace Arsenal
Arsenal FC v FC Shakhtar Donetsk - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD3
Arsenal FC v FC Shakhtar Donetsk - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD3 / Justin Setterfield/GettyImages
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Mikel Arteta is unfortunately rocked by a Riccaro Calafiori injury setback. That said, let's analyse the progress & potential return date for the Arsenal defender.

Arsenal signed Riccardo Calafiori in the summer transfer window. After settling into his new surroundings, he has emerged into a key player under Mikel Arteta, even scoring an incredible goal at the Etihad Stadium against champions Man City.

Against Shakhtar Donetsk, Riccaro Calafiori went down injured. He had to be omitted from the match on the 72nd minute, showing clear signs of discomfort in his leg.

So, what's the latest Riccardo Calafiori injury update from Mikel Arteta?


What injury does Riccardo Calafiori have?

Riccardo Calafiori has a knee injury. He was forced off the pitch against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League and he's since missed the Premier League match against Liverpool and the EFL Cup match against Preston.


When will Riccardo Calafiori return from injury?

It is difficult for Mikel Arteta to predict exactly when Riccardo Calafiori will return from injury. The initial feeling is that the Italian has not suffered a serious injury, but he could be sidelined short term.

In his own words, Mikel Arteta said: "[Riccardo Calafiori] will be out for a few weeks, I would say."

Speaking ahead of the upcoming Premier League visit to Newcastle United, Arteta confirmed that Calafiori is not in contention. In the press conference, Mikel Arteta said: "[Riccardo Calafiori] and Martin [Odegaard] are out definitely."


Who can replace Riccardo Calafiori at Arsenal?

If Riccardo Calafiori is unavailable, like he will be for the trip to Newcastle, Jurrien Timber will be the first in line to replace him. It is still up in the air whether Timber or Calafiori is the preferred option, but it does mean that Timber can slot seamlessly into the Arsenal starting lineup.


Is Riccardo Calafiori available for Fantasy Football?

No. While there has been no return date set for Riccardo Calafiori, he is certainly unavailable to face Newcastle United. Mikel Arteta has already ruled him out, which the Spanish boss is usually tentative to do, so there is no chance for a Calafiori return this weekend.

Therefore, if Riccardo Calafiori is in your fantasy football team, it is best to remove him. His best replacement is Gabriel Magalhaes, who is tipped to return from his injury to face Newcastle this weekend, offering great defensive and attacking potential.


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