Arteta Confirms Good News for Real Madrid: Key Arsenal Player Out

Arsenal faces a tough blow ahead of their Champions League clash against Real Madrid. Mikel Arteta confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori will be sidelined after suffering an injury while playing for the Italy national team.

The Italian center-back sustained a worrying injury in the match against Germany. A slip caused him to violently plant his knee into the turf, raising concerns for the Arsenal coaching staff.

Arteta clarified the situation in a press conference: “Riccardo came back injured. It was unfortunate how it happened. It could have been worse, so we hope it’s only a matter of weeks. We’ll see how he progresses.”

The injury is not a ligament tear, but it will keep him out for at least two Premier League games and most likely the Champions League encounter with Real Madrid.

This isn’t Calafiori’s first injury of the season. In his first year at Arsenal, he has played 26 games, scoring three goals and providing two assists. His absence leaves a significant gap in the Gunners’ defense at a critical point in the season.

Mixed News for Arteta
Not all the news was bad ahead of the Fulham match. Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka, a key figure in his attack, has recovered. Additionally, Jurriën Timber is also available after recovering from a serious illness.

“He has done all the things carefully, so now it’s about putting him on the pitch at the right times. He’s pushing because he’s eager. We’ve respected the timelines, but we’ve done everything and even had to hold him back, so he’s ready to go. It’s another massive weapon we have. We know the impact he’s had on the team and how important his role and contribution are to our success, so it’s great to have him back,” said the Spanish manager.

Arsenal will face Real Madrid with some key absences. Calafiori’s absence is a relief for the Whites, who will look to exploit the defensive vulnerability of the English side.