Riccardo Calafiori spotted in Arsenal training as three stars given individual plans

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Arsenal have received a positive update on Riccardo Calafiori’s fitness, with the defender spotted in training ahead of Monday’s crucial Premier League clash against Burnley.

The Italian was substituted at half-time during Arsenal’s victory over West Ham on Sunday, sparking concerns over his availability for the title-deciding fixture. Mikel Arteta confirmed after the match that Calafiori had “felt something” and expressed uncertainty about the defender’s chances of featuring against the Clarets.

“No, we don’t know whether he’s going to be available now,” Arteta said. “We still have days ahead. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious, but we’ll have to wait and see how he reacts.”

Training ground boost

However, Calafiori’s participation in Thursday’s open training session has raised hopes that the injury is not as serious as initially feared. His presence on the training pitch suggests the knock may not keep him sidelined for Monday’s pivotal encounter.

According to Sky Sports, William Saliba, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka were absent from the main training session but were following individual training programs. This approach is often used to manage players returning from injury or to carefully monitor their workload during crucial periods of the season.

Odegaard recently returned from injury and made an immediate impact against West Ham, providing the assist for Leandro Trossard’s winning goal. Saka has been in impressive form since overcoming an Achilles problem last month, including scoring the crucial goal in the Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid.

Title race implications

The fitness updates come at a critical juncture in Arsenal’s title chase. The Gunners currently sit two points clear of Manchester City at the Premier League summit with just two matches remaining for both sides.

A victory against Burnley would move Arsenal one step closer to their first league title in 22 years. The north London side will be hoping to have as many key players available as possible for what could prove to be a season-defining encounter.

While Ben White is expected to miss the remainder of the campaign after suffering a knee injury against West Ham, Arteta has hinted at other players returning to boost his squad depth.

“We lost Ben the other day but the others are coming back as well,” the Arsenal manager said. “I’m so enthusiastic, so positive.”

Jurrien Timber is another player who could potentially return, with Arteta revealing the Dutch defender has “progressed a little bit in the last few days” and describing him as “a really important player” who is “doing everything he can to help the squad.”

Arsenal’s medical team will continue to assess Calafiori’s condition ahead of Monday’s match, with the club hoping the defender can play a part in their title pursuit.