Arsenal Manager Arteta Expects Breakthrough Season for Injured Defender Calafiori

Arsenal is entering the 2025-26 season with a focus on new signings such as Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Riccardo Calafiori, who is expected to play a key role if he can maintain availability. Coach Mikel Arteta highlighted that Calafiori, who had an injury-hit debut season after joining from Bologna, has a big season ahead and must be consistently available to contribute energy and stability to the team. Calafiori missed significant time last season due to injuries sustained on international duty with Italy, but Arteta is hopeful that with more understanding and a bit of luck, the defender will deliver a strong performance this season. The club is also keen on utilizing academy players and new signing Noni Madueke, who will have limited time to impress as a backup to established forwards. Overall, Arsenal’s success in competing for major trophies depends on the fitness and form of key players like Calafiori and the integration of new and young talent during pre-season. Arteta’s optimism is based on getting the team fully fit and ready ahead of their pre-season tour and upcoming competitive fixtures.