Arsenal left-back Riccardo Calafiori will miss Italy’s crucial Nations League match against Israel on Monday due to a calf injury. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed the news on Sunday, revealing that Calafiori sustained a bruised left calf in a freak incident during Friday’s impressive 3-1 win over France in Paris. The injury occurred when French winger Ousmane Dembele was sent flying into Calafiori’s calf after being tackled by Italian defender Alessandro Bastoni.
The 22-year-old Calafiori, who joined Arsenal on loan from Roma, will now return to the English club for treatment. His absence is a blow for Italy, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing summer where their European Championship title defense ended in the last-16. Italy, currently led by new manager Luciano Spalletti, are in Group A2 of the Nations League, tied on three points with Belgium.
Both Italy and Belgium, who defeated Israel 3-1 in their opening match, will be looking for a win on Monday to take control of the group. Italy’s match against Israel will be played in Budapest, Hungary.
