The Gunners defender was one of the Azzurri’s best players in an otherwise dismal Euro 2024 campaign in which they were convincingly beaten by Switzerland in the last 16.
Italy will now hope to turn a new leaf and they certainly got off to the best possible start with a first win against Les Bleus in France in 70 years.
The Azzurri got off to the worst possible start as Bradley Barcola gave France the lead in the first minute, but Federico Dimarco equalised for on the half-hour mark.
Italy, inspired by the returning Sandro Tonali, then took the lead in the 50th minute through Davide Frattesi and then wrapped up the win on 74 minutes through Giacomo Raspadori.
Calafiori was in inspired form for Luciano Spalletti’s charges before being substituted as a precaution after landing awkwardly on his ankle following a freak incident.
This happened following an accidental coming together with Ousmane Dembele, who had been tackled himself moments earlier and then collided with Calafiori.
This led to much concern among Arsenal fans, but luckily, it doesn’t look as though it’s anything to be concerned about.
No injury mention as Arsenal star Riccardo Calafiori hails Italy after win
For instance, Sky Sports News reported that Calafiori is expected to be in action for Monday’s Nations League meeting with Israel.
Meanwhile, the player himself has taken to social media with messages that don’t mention any injury, suggesting there shouldn’t be much to worry about.
On Instagram, Calafiori wrote: “What a performance, what a night! Well done boys.”
When could Calafiori next be in action?
It’s a real relief that the likes of Sky Sports – and Calafiori himself – are downplaying the injury.
Italy face Israel in Budapest on Monday night and there’s a chance the Arsenal star may feature.
After the international break, Arsenal will look to get back to winning ways at Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby.
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