Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided mixed news regarding the injury statuses of two key defensive players, Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel, ahead of the club’s Premier League clash with Everton this Saturday. While one of the defenders is in contention to return to action, the other remains sidelined as he continues his recovery.
The Current Situation for Gabriel and Calafiori
Both Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori have been missing from the Arsenal squad for the past three matches, with their injuries dating back to the end of November. These absences have been felt across the defensive line, though Arsenal’s back four has managed to cope effectively in their absence. Despite this, the return of both players could significantly bolster the Gunners’ defensive options as the season progresses.
Gabriel’s Potential Return
The more optimistic update concerns Brazilian centre-back Gabriel. Arteta revealed in his pre-match press conference that Gabriel, who sustained a head injury during the 5-2 win over West Ham United last month, is in contention to feature against Everton. The central defender had scored Arsenal’s opening goal in that dramatic win but was forced off at half-time following a blow to the head from West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.
In addition to the head knock, Gabriel was also dealing with a muscular issue, which kept him out of the following matches against Manchester United, Fulham, and the 3-0 Champions League victory over Monaco. However, Arteta gave an encouraging update regarding his fitness, stating: “There is a possibility with one of them to be available. He trained today. It’s Gabriel.” This suggests that, barring any setbacks, the 26-year-old could make his return to action this weekend.
The Brazilian has been a mainstay in Arteta’s defence since his arrival at Arsenal, and his return would provide much-needed stability at the back, particularly as the Gunners aim to maintain their strong defensive record in the Premier League.
Riccardo Calafiori’s Ongoing Recovery
While Gabriel’s return is a realistic possibility, Arteta offered less positive news about Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian left-back has been sidelined with a groin problem, which he picked up just 10 minutes into Arsenal’s 2-1 win against West Ham last month. Calafiori was replaced by Oleksandr Zinchenko after suffering the injury, and he has not featured in the following matches against Manchester United, Fulham, or Monaco.
Arteta explained that Calafiori is still working through his recovery, with the club following the medical department’s set timeline. The Arsenal manager said: “We’re just respecting the times that the medical department has set. We monitor him every day.” There was no indication of an exact return date for Calafiori, meaning that it may take some time before the former Roma defender is available for selection again.
This news comes as somewhat of a disappointment to both Arteta and Arsenal fans, as Calafiori had begun to establish himself as a key part of the squad since his summer move. His performances had earned him a place in the starting XI, and his absence has left a gap in the left-back position, which has largely been filled by Zinchenko.
Arsenal’s Defensive Resilience Despite Injuries
Despite the absence of both Gabriel and Calafiori, Arsenal’s defence has remained resolute. Over the past three matches, the Gunners have conceded just one goal and allowed only six shots on target. This impressive defensive record speaks volumes about the collective strength of the team, with Arteta’s tactical discipline ensuring that the back four, including the likes of William Saliba and Ben White, have held firm without the need for immediate reinforcements.
In the Champions League, particularly, Arsenal’s defensive cohesion was on full display in their 3-0 win against Monaco, a match that showcased the team’s ability to grind out results even when faced with injury concerns. While the return of key defenders like Gabriel and Calafiori would undoubtedly strengthen the squad, Arsenal has proven that they are capable of maintaining their defensive standards even in their absence.
Arteta’s Mind Games and the Mystery of Injury Updates
As is often the case with Mikel Arteta, his injury updates are not always as straightforward as they might seem. Arsenal fans have learned to take his statements with a pinch of caution, especially when it comes to player availability. Earlier this season, Zinchenko himself revealed that Arteta had sometimes used injury “mind games” to keep opposing managers guessing about the fitness of certain players.
This could well be a factor in Arteta’s cryptic comments regarding Gabriel’s recovery, as the manager has been known to keep the details of his squad’s fitness close to his chest. Such tactics often lead to uncertainty about whether players will make a quick recovery or face a longer spell on the sidelines.
The Importance of Gabriel and Calafiori for Arsenal
Both Gabriel and Calafiori are crucial to Arteta’s plans, and their potential returns will significantly impact the team. Gabriel, in particular, has become an integral part of the first-choice defensive partnership alongside William Saliba. His physical presence, aerial ability, and leadership in defence have been vital to Arsenal’s defensive solidity this season.
Meanwhile, Calafiori’s performances on the left-hand side of defence had shown promise, particularly in his combination play with Zinchenko and the attacking options he provides. Though his time in the Premier League has been short, his potential to make a difference at left-back could be a game-changer for Arsenal as they push for both domestic and European success.
Conclusion
Mikel Arteta’s injury updates on Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel provide a mixed picture ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Everton. While Gabriel appears likely to return to action after recovering from a head and muscular injury, Calafiori’s recovery is still ongoing, and it remains unclear when the Italian defender will be fit to play again. However, Arsenal’s defence has remained strong in their absence, with the team managing to keep clean sheets and concede few chances.
As Arteta continues to manage the squad’s fitness carefully, Arsenal fans will be hoping for a swift return for both players, particularly as the Gunners look to maintain their strong form in the Premier League and Champions League.
