Arsenal have been handed encouraging news during the international break, as defender Riccardo Calafiori appears to have put early fitness concerns firmly behind him.

The 23-year-old arrived at Italy’s training camp earlier this week with what was initially described as a minor muscular issue, raising doubts about his availability for the World Cup play-offs. However, those fears quickly faded.

Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso had initially downplayed the problem, suggesting it was nothing serious and that the medical team would monitor the situation closely. That optimism proved well-founded.

Calafiori not only featured against Northern Ireland but completed the full 90 minutes, playing a key role as Italy secured an important victory in Bergamo to move one step closer to World Cup qualification. His performance drew widespread praise, with Italian media highlighting him as one of the standout players on the pitch.

Despite being used primarily as a left-back at club level under Mikel Arteta, Calafiori operated in a left centre-back role for his national team, showing versatility and composure throughout the match.

Italy will now face Bosnia and Herzegovina in their next play-off clash, with a place at the World Cup on the line. Should they qualify, they are set to enter a challenging Group B alongside Canada, Qatar and Switzerland.

Other positive updates

For Arsenal, the positive update comes at a crucial time. The North London side return to action on April 4 against Southampton, aiming to secure a spot in the FA Cup semi-finals. Arteta will be particularly relieved to see Calafiori emerge unscathed, especially as several key players are currently managing fitness issues.

Defenders Jurrien Timber, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have all been sidelined during the international window, while Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze are also working their way back to full fitness. Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard withdrew from Belgium duty as a precaution following a recent hip concern.

With decisive fixtures approaching, Arsenal will be hoping their squad returns from international duty in strong condition — and Calafiori’s recovery is a major step in the right direction.