Calafiori’s Performance in First Arsenal Start After Injury Return

Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori made his first start for Arsenal since returning from injury, playing 78 minutes in the team’s 3-1 victory over Brentford on New Year’s Day 2025. Manager Mikel Arteta was pleased to welcome the 22-year-old back to the starting lineup after his third injury layoff of the season.

Calafiori put in a solid defensive showing, earning a 7.3 rating from Sofascore. His performance included winning 5 of 8 aerial duels, making 2 clearances, and blocking 1 shot. The young Italian also received a yellow card in the 57th minute. On the attacking end, Calafiori contributed 1 key pass, 1 accurate long ball, and 1 successful cross during his time on the pitch.

When asked about squad depth with a busy January schedule ahead, Arteta expressed optimism about players like Calafiori returning to fitness: “Hopefully people are coming back, like Riccy [Calafiori] today. He was back and other players are in top form as well – we need everybody.”

Calafiori’s successful return to the starting XI provides a boost to Arsenal’s defensive options as they look to maintain their strong form in the new year. His performance against Brentford suggests he is ready to play an important role for the Gunners moving forward.