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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Arsenal FC and FC Kairat Almaty at Arsenal Stadium on January 28, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Riccardo Calafiori has returned to the starting XI for Arsenal against Fulham, marking his comeback after a recent injury absence as Mikel Arteta rotates his side.
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The Italy international had been expected to feature against Newcastle but was ultimately left out of the matchday squad, despite nearing full fitness. Arteta was forced into selection decisions due to squad limitations, with Calafiori among those to miss out.
“Because these guys have been exceptional, I understand that,” Arteta explained. “We had to leave two players out of the squad at the end… there were Christian and Richi [Calafiori], so that’s going to happen.”
He added: “If the Premier League allows us to have 20 or 22 players, we can have everybody involved and hopefully next season that will be the case.”
Calafiori return a welcome boost for Arsenal
Calafiori’s return now offers a timely boost, particularly with Arsenal balancing domestic commitments and their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. Arteta has made several changes from the side that started in Madrid, but the inclusion of the former Roma defender is the standout.
Prior to the match, speaking to Sky Sport, Arteta revealed the importance of
Arsenal continue to chase the Premier League title, though their focus is inevitably split given the importance of their European campaign. Calafiori’s presence at left-back adds defensive stability and tactical flexibility, especially alongside a settled back line featuring William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
His return will be closely monitored, but it represents a positive step as Arsenal head into a decisive period of the season.
