Leverkusen, Germany – Arsenal received a significant boost ahead of their Champions League last-16 first leg against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, with defender Riccardo Calafiori returning to training. The Italian international, who was forced off during Arsenal’s FA Cup victory over Mansfield Town, appears to be fit enough to feature, providing a lift for both the Gunners and the Italian national team as they prepare for crucial upcoming matches.
Calafiori participated in Arsenal’s final training session at London Colney on Tuesday, according to multiple reports, including Football London. The 23-year-old’s return is particularly timely given his recent substitution in the 5-0 FA Cup win against Mansfield Town, where he was replaced in the 76th minute with what manager Mikel Arteta described as “little niggles.” Arteta stated Calafiori wasn’t “comfortable continuing,” but the defender’s presence on the training pitch suggests the issue isn’t serious.
The news is also welcome for Italy manager Luciano Spalletti. The Azzurri face Northern Ireland in a crucial World Cup play-off semifinal in Bergamo on March 26th, with a potential final against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina following on March 31st. Calafiori’s availability provides Spalletti with a valuable defensive option as Italy aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Triple Injury Boost for Arteta
Calafiori isn’t the only Arsenal player returning to fitness. William Saliba and Leandro Trossard also rejoined the squad in training, offering manager Mikel Arteta further positive news ahead of the challenging trip to Germany. Saliba has been sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in the Premier League win over Chelsea, while Trossard was also substituted during the FA Cup match against Mansfield Town. The return of these three players significantly strengthens Arteta’s squad depth as they prepare to face Xabi Alonso’s high-flying Bayer Leverkusen.
Though, Arsenal will still be without several key players. Captain Martin Odegaard, versatile defender Ben White, and Mikel Merino, who recently underwent foot surgery, were all absent from Tuesday’s training session. Merino is not expected back until later in the season, and the absence of Odegaard and White represents a significant loss for Arteta’s side.
Calafiori’s Rapid Rise at Arsenal
Riccardo Calafiori joined Arsenal in July 2024 for a reported fee of £33.6 million, according to Wikipedia. The Italian quickly established himself as a key member of Arteta’s squad, demonstrating his versatility and defensive prowess. Prior to his move to North London, Calafiori honed his skills with Roma, Genoa, and Basel, before a standout season with Bologna caught the eye of Arsenal scouts. His ability to play both as a center-back and a left-back makes him a valuable asset for Arteta, offering tactical flexibility and defensive solidity.
Calafiori’s journey to the top hasn’t been without its challenges. He suffered a serious knee injury early in his career while at Roma, threatening to derail his progress. However, he battled back from the setback and has since emerged as one of Italy’s most promising young defenders. His resilience and determination have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, and he is quickly becoming a fan favorite at the Emirates Stadium.
Champions League Challenge Awaits
Arsenal face a stern test against Bayer Leverkusen, who are currently enjoying an impressive run of form in the Bundesliga. Xabi Alonso’s side are known for their high-intensity pressing and attacking flair, and will pose a significant challenge to Arsenal’s defense. Arteta will need to carefully assess Calafiori’s fitness and decide whether to start him against Leverkusen. If Calafiori is deemed fit enough, his presence will undoubtedly strengthen Arsenal’s chances of securing a positive result in the first leg.
The match at the BayArena is scheduled for Wednesday evening. Arteta is expected to provide a more detailed update on Calafiori’s fitness during a pre-match press conference. For Italy fans, the hope is that Calafiori emerges unscathed from the Champions League tie, ready to contribute to the Azzurri’s World Cup qualification campaign.
Arsenal’s next confirmed fixture is the return leg against Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium on March 18th. Following that, they return to Premier League action against a yet-to-be-determined opponent. The availability of key players like Calafiori will be crucial as Arsenal navigate a busy schedule in both domestic and European competitions.
