Italy’s national football team faces a setback as defender Calafiori has withdrawn from the training camp due to an injury, confirmed manager Gennaro Gattuso. The team is preparing for their final World Cup qualification match against Norway on November 19, 2023, and Gattuso stated it would not be “fair” for Calafiori to play given his current condition.
In an interview with Sky Sports Italia, Gattuso explained, “Calafiori left the training camp. We tried Calafiori; he had a few issues. I thank him for his commitment: he stayed here for a week. He could have played perhaps, but it wouldn’t have been fair to him or Arsenal.” The decision underscores the manager’s focus on the player’s long-term health as well as the club’s interests.
Italy needs a significant victory to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. They must win by a margin of nine goals or more against Norway to ensure their place in the tournament. This challenge becomes even more daunting without the presence of Calafiori, a promising talent in the squad.
Arsenal, who currently sit at the top of the Premier League table with 26 points, will also feel the impact of Calafiori’s injury. The club is already managing a list of absentees, and the timing could not be worse as they prepare for the season’s first north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on November 23, 2023.
As Italy weighs its options for the upcoming match, Gattuso mentioned potential replacements, specifically Gianluca Mancini and Alessandro Buongiorno. The manager’s comments indicate a determination to maintain team morale and focus despite the loss of a key player.
The situation highlights the delicate balance between national duty and club commitments in professional football. As the World Cup qualification campaign reaches its climax, every decision becomes critical for both players and coaches alike.
