The Italian national team has been dealt a significant setback as both Andrea Cambiaso and Riccardo Calafiori have been forced to withdraw from the squad due to injuries. This development comes just days before Italy’s crucial Nations League quarter-final second leg match against Germany in Dortmund.

Italy already faces an uphill battle after losing the first leg 2-1 at San Siro, despite taking an early lead through Sandro Tonali. The absence of Cambiaso and Calafiori further complicates matters for coach Luciano Spalletti.

Defensive Concerns Mount for Azzurri

Calafiori, who plays for Arsenal, was the first to be ruled out due to a knee injury. He has returned to his club for further assessment. Shortly after, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) announced that Juventus player Cambiaso would also be unable to participate due to an unresolved left ankle sprain.

These withdrawals leave Spalletti with limited defensive options for the upcoming match. It is likely that he will need to call up replacements to bolster the squad.

On a more positive note, Lazio winger Mattia Zaccagni has resumed training with the team, providing a glimmer of hope for Italy’s attacking options.

The second leg of the Nations League quarter-final is scheduled for Sunday at 19:45 GMT at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund. Italy will need to overcome both their injury concerns and the deficit from the first leg if they hope to advance in the tournament.