Mikel Arteta has confirmed Riccardo Calafiori felt a “tweak” during Arsenal’s 3–2 win over Newcastle. Further tests will reveal the extent of the issue.
Arsenal continued their strong pre-season form with a 3–2 win over Newcastle United — but victory was soured by yet another injury to defender Riccardo Calafiori.
The £42 million summer signing from Bologna was forced off early, and Mikel Arteta has already addressed growing concerns over the 23-year-old’s fitness.
“He felt something. A little tweak,” Arteta told reporters after the game. “I don’t know how big it is.”
Calafiori has impressed fans and coaches alike since his arrival — but his injury record is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
Why Arsenal Fans Are Worried About Calafiori’s Fitness
This is not the first time Calafiori has gone down injured in an Arsenal shirt. In fact, this is his seventh injury since joining the Gunners in July 2024.
“Every time he’s fit, he’s a monster — but Arsenal just can’t get a full season out of him.”
Calafiori’s powerful, aggressive style makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s backline. But persistent knocks and muscular issues have repeatedly disrupted his progress.
Calafiori’s Arsenal Injury Record (2024/25)
| Injury | From | Until | Days Out | Games Missed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knee bruise | May 24, 2025 | Ongoing | 65+ | 1 |
| Knee injury | Mar 21, 2025 | May 6, 2025 | 47 | 9 |
| Muscle injury | Jan 11, 2025 | Jan 21, 2025 | 11 | 3 |
| Knee injury | Dec 3, 2024 | Dec 17, 2024 | 15 | 4 |
| Knee injury | Oct 22, 2024 | Nov 21, 2024 | 31 | 8 |
| Calf problems | Sep 7, 2024 | Sep 18, 2024 | 12 | 2 |
Analyst Verdict: Arsenal’s Risk May Not Be Paying Off
Arsenal took a calculated gamble when they invested up to £42m in Calafiori last summer. On his day, he’s one of the most complete left-footed defenders in Europe. But his continued availability is becoming a serious risk in a team chasing major trophies.
If this pattern continues into 2025/26, Arteta may be forced to re-think his defensive depth — or explore the market once again.
Key Insights
- Calafiori forced off injured again vs Newcastle
- Arteta confirms it was “a tweak” but severity unclear
- Defender has now suffered 7 injuries since July 2024
- Arsenal paid £33.6m rising to £42m for him from Bologna
- Serious questions emerging over his long-term fitness
What’s Next?
Calafiori will be assessed again this week as Arsenal’s medical staff determine whether the defender will miss the rest of pre-season. With the Premier League opener just weeks away, Arteta faces another defensive dilemma.
Should Arsenal be concerned about Calafiori’s injury record — or is it just pre-season caution?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 27 Jul 2025 15:40
he was looking like prime Maldini out there. Unfortunately just an injury prone player.
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