Italy’s bid to overturn a first-leg deficit in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals suffered a major blow as defender Riccardo Calafiori has been ruled out of the crucial second leg against Germany. The 22-year-old sustained a knee injury late in Italy’s 2-1 loss at San Siro, prompting his withdrawal from the squad. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed that Calafiori will return to Arsenal for rehabilitation. With forward Mateo Retegui already sidelined, Italy travels to Dortmund undermanned and under pressure. Sunday’s fixture now holds even greater significance for Luciano Spalletti’s squad, already grappling with both form and fitness concerns.
Calafiori Suffers Late Injury Blow Against Germany
The 22-year-old defender was injured in added time after slipping while turning, requiring immediate medical attention.
During stoppage time in Thursday’s quarterfinal clash, Calafiori slipped awkwardly while attempting a directional change—an innocuous moment that led to visible discomfort. The incident occurred just minutes before the final whistle, casting a shadow over what was already a disappointing result for the Azzurri. The medical staff promptly intervened, and he did not return to the pitch.
FIGC Confirms Calafiori’s Unavailability for Return Leg
The Italian Football Federation announced the defender’s withdrawal following clinical tests on his knee.
On Friday, the FIGC released a statement confirming that Calafiori had sustained a sprain-contusion trauma to his left knee. After undergoing scans and further evaluation, he was deemed unfit to travel to Dortmund. “He will return to his home club,” the federation stated, confirming his exit from national team duties just days ahead of a must-win second leg.
Italy’s Injury List Grows: Retegui Also Out
Striker Mateo Retegui had already withdrawn before the first leg due to injury, adding to Italy’s offensive woes.
The Italian squad is already dealing with a depleted attack. Mateo Retegui, expected to spearhead the offense, was sidelined due to an undisclosed injury sustained in training. His absence was keenly felt during Italy’s lackluster performance at San Siro. With Calafiori now out, the squad’s depth is stretched thin in both defense and attack.
Calafiori’s Injury History Raises Concern for Arsenal
Recurring knee problems have plagued the defender since his transfer from Bologna, impacting his availability for the Gunners.
Calafiori, who joined Arsenal in July, has already missed nine Premier League matches this season due to similar knee issues. While the latest injury does not appear to be long-term, it continues a concerning trend for the North London club. Arsenal's medical staff will monitor his recovery closely, especially with a key domestic clash against Fulham on April 1.
Implications for Italy’s Lineup and Tactical Options
Spalletti must reconfigure his back line and possibly shift formations ahead of the pivotal second leg in Dortmund.
Calafiori’s absence forces a tactical rethink. Known for his versatility and composure under pressure, the defender has been a reliable outlet in Italy’s build-up play. Without him, Spalletti may opt for a more conservative shape or promote an inexperienced defender to the starting XI. Against a high-intensity German side at home, every defensive decision will be magnified.
Italy’s Uphill Battle in Dortmund
Trailing 2-1 on aggregate, Italy faces a high-stakes return leg without two key players and dwindling momentum.
The setting shifts to Signal Iduna Park, where Germany will look to capitalize on home advantage. Italy, on the other hand, arrives short-handed and under pressure to deliver. Without Calafiori and Retegui, the Azzurri must lean heavily on veterans and untested squad members alike. Tactical discipline and mental resilience will be crucial if Italy hopes to stage a turnaround.
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