Italy’s Calafiori Set to Miss Second Leg Against Germany Due to Knee Injury

Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori will not participate in the second leg of their Nations League quarter-final versus Germany after sustaining a knee injury during the first match, as confirmed by the Italian Football Association (FIGC) on Friday.

Calafiori was forced to exit the field in stoppage time during Italy’s 2-1 loss to Germany at the San Siro on Thursday, having slipped while attempting to change direction, which resulted in him needing treatment for his knee.

“Today, Riccardo Calafiori underwent examinations for the sprain-contusion injury to his left knee acquired during the match against Germany. He has been ruled out of the return fixture set for Sunday and will return to his club,” stated the FIGC.

Adding to Italy’s woes, they are already without striker Mateo Retegui, who had to pull out due to injury just before the first leg, as they prepare to travel to Dortmund for the upcoming clash.

Calafiori, who made the move to Arsenal from Bologna in July, has endured a string of injuries this season, including a similar knee issue, which has kept the 22-year-old sidelined for nine matches in the Premier League.

Arsenal’s next encounter is slated against Fulham on April 1st.