Key Points
- Arsenal left-back Riccardo Calafiori has recovered from a hip injury and is expected to be fit to play against Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby.
- Calafiori was sent home early from the Italy squad during the international break due to injury concerns.
- Arsenal have conducted their own medical checks confirming no serious injury to Calafiori.
- There is significant concern for Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhães, who sustained a groin injury during Brazil’s friendly against Senegal, putting his derby participation in doubt.
- Calafiori has featured consistently this season, starting 12 of 17 matchday squads, marking a strong improvement from his injury-hit debut campaign.
- The positive news about Calafiori comes at a crucial time as Arsenal prepare for a challenging run of fixtures, including matches against Spurs, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea.
What is the latest update on Riccardo Calafiori’s injury?
As reported by various sources including Fabrizio Romano through The Daily Cannon and Just Arsenal, Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori was forced to withdraw from the Italy national team squad during the recent international break due to a hip injury. Calafiori missed both of Italy’s World Cup qualifying matches, returning to Arsenal early for treatment and assessment. However, Arsenal conducted their own thorough checks and confirmed there is no serious injury keeping Calafiori sidelined. Romano has stated that Calafiori will be “100 per cent” ready to face Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League clash scheduled for Sunday, November 23, 2025.
Gennaro Gattuso, Italy’s manager, acknowledged that Calafiori tried to be available but ultimately could not force participation in the Italy squad, underscoring the cautious approach taken with the player.
How significant is this recovery for Arsenal ahead of the North London derby?
The return of Calafiori is a timely boost for Arsenal and their manager Mikel Arteta amid mounting injury concerns within the squad. Aside from Calafiori’s minor setback, Arsenal’s defensive stability faces a more serious threat as centre-back Gabriel Magalhães limped off during Brazil’s recent friendly against Senegal with a groin injury, casting doubt over his availability for the derby.
Calafiori’s availability reduces the defensive burden on Arsenal’s squad, especially given that he has become an increasingly key figure in this campaign. The 23-year-old left-back has started 12 of 17 matchday squads this season and has established himself as Arteta’s first-choice left-back, a notable turnaround from his injury-plagued debut season where he missed over 40% of fixtures due to fitness issues.
What has been Calafiori’s contribution to Arsenal so far this season?
Riccardo Calafiori’s 2025-26 season form has been markedly better compared to his first season at Arsenal. He has featured in all matchday squads to date and started most of those matches. So far, Calafiori has contributed one goal and two assists in 12 appearances across all competitions. This improved consistency is crucial for Arsenal as they navigate a tough fixture list.
What did Arsenal and Italy staff say about Calafiori’s injury?
Gattuso, Italy’s manager, confirmed that Calafiori had to leave the national camp due to the hip issue and advised players to prioritise national team duties but also acknowledged limitations when fitness is compromised.
Arsenal, on the other hand, were reassured by their medical staff after conducting their own assessments and describing the injury as minor without serious implications, allowing the player to prepare for imminent return.
What other injury concerns are Arsenal facing ahead of the derby?
Arsenal’s defensive situation is complicated by the injury to Gabriel Magalhães, who suffered a groin injury while on international duty with Brazil. This injury is more severe and has not yet cleared up, putting his participation in the derby in question.
Overall, Arsenal’s squad is preparing for a demanding period that includes a must-win North London derby clash against Tottenham Hotspur, followed by challenging fixtures against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and Chelsea in the Premier League.
What is the significance of the upcoming North London derby for Arsenal?
The North London derby between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur remains one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in English football, and with Arsenal leading the Premier League standings, securing a win is vital to maintain momentum. The availability of key players like Calafiori is essential for Arsenal’s defensive solidity and balance as they look to consolidate their position at the top.
Arsenal have received encouraging news regarding Riccardo Calafiori, who is expected to be fit and ready for the crucial North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after overcoming his hip injury that caused him to withdraw from Italy’s international squad. This development offers a welcome relief for manager Mikel Arteta amid injury concerns surrounding Gabriel Magalhães, who is doubtful for the weekend’s fixture. Calafiori’s improved fitness and consistent performances this season have made him a key figure for the Gunners as they prepare for a challenging run of fixtures across domestic and European competitions
