The Italian defender, who joined the team this summer for £42 million from Bologna, limped out of the Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk with 18 minutes remaining after falling awkwardly on his leg. right. Technical director Mikel Arteta commented that these first signs are not encouraging and that the extent of the injury is not known.
imago
In addition to Calafiori‘s potential issue, Arteta believes it is “unlikely” that Bukayo Saka will be available for the Liverpool clash due to a hamstring problem. Martin Ødegaard and Jurriën Timber also remain on the list of doubts due to various injuries. With William Saliba suspended for a red card, Arsenal will face a considerable defensive challenge.
The team was dominant in the first half against Shakhtar, but Arteta acknowledged that they suffered a slump in the second half, which complicated their performance. Dmytro Riznyk, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, scored an unfortunate own goal that sealed the 1-0 result in favor of the Ukrainians. “I expected a decline in our performance,” Arteta reflected, highlighting that they failed to convert the opportunities they generated in the first half.
Arteta also made tactical decisions, such as substituting Ben White at half-time, to avoid a fourth player sent off this season. Despite the adversities, the coach was optimistic, ensuring that the team will be ready and in “full condition” for Sunday’s match. “Believe me, on Sunday we will be flying,” Arteta stated confidently.
