Is Riccardo Calafiori Back in Time for the PSG Clash?
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Synopsis
Arsenal has received a major boost with Riccardo Calafiori's return to training just in time for the crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final against PSG. Can his presence help turn the tide for the Gunners?
Key Takeaways
- Riccardo Calafiori has returned to training for Arsenal.
- He is expected to be part of the squad for the UEFA Champions League semi-final.
- Calafiori missed matches due to a knee injury sustained in March.
- Jurrien Timber has also returned to training.
- Arsenal aims to overcome a 0-1 deficit against PSG.
London, May 6 (NationPress) Arsenal has received a significant boost ahead of their trip to Paris, as Riccardo Calafiori has resumed training and is anticipated to join the squad for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint Germain on Thursday (IST).
The team has been without defender Calafiori since their 1-0 victory over Chelsea in March. The Italian faced a knee injury while playing for his national team during the Nations League quarter-final loss to Germany in the March international break.
Calafiori was expected to make his return for the first leg in London; however, Mikel Arteta is now hopeful to include him in the squad for this pivotal return leg. Alongside Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, who also missed the match against Bournemouth, has returned to training after concerns about his availability for the crucial tie.
According to UEFA regulations, Arsenal was required to conduct part of their training session in front of the cameras at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, where the wingback was seen actively participating.
Before Arsenal's 1-2 defeat against AFC Bournemouth over the weekend, Arteta was questioned about updates regarding Calafiori and Jorginho. The Spaniard confirmed that while the Italian defender would miss the Premier League clash, his comments regarding the UCL game were somewhat ambiguous.
"Calafiori is out, Jorginho is still out. Jorginho’s situation is a bit more complicated than expected," stated Arteta. "Let's see in the coming days how a few of them respond," he added.
Calafiori, who has played seven matches in the Champions League this season, was instrumental in Arsenal's 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the round of 16. Additionally, the left-back has participated in 17 Premier League games, contributing two goals and an assist. However, before this crucial match, Arteta is unlikely to alter his established back four of William Saliba, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jakub Kiwior, and Jurrien Timber, especially given Lewis-Skelly’s consistently strong performances.
Arsenal heads to Parc des Princes following a 0-1 defeat at home in the first leg and will aim to overturn the deficit in Paris as they face Luis Enrique’s side, striving to reach the UEFA Champions League final for the first time since 2006.
Point of View
The return of Riccardo Calafiori to Arsenal's training squad is a significant development. His experience and skill could provide the Gunners with much-needed reinforcement in a critical match against PSG. As the team prepares to face the challenges ahead, the focus will be on whether this boost can translate into a successful outcome.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Riccardo Calafiori sustain?
Riccardo Calafiori sustained a knee injury while playing for Italy during the Nations League quarter-finals against Germany.
When is the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final?
The second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against PSG is scheduled for Thursday.
How many Champions League matches has Calafiori played this season?
Calafiori has played seven matches in the Champions League this season.
What is the significance of the match against PSG?
This match is crucial for Arsenal as they seek to overturn a 0-1 deficit from the first leg and reach the Champions League final.
Who else returned to training alongside Calafiori?
Jurrien Timber also returned to training after missing the game against Bournemouth.
