Calafiori Injury Raises Concerns For Arteta Before Liverpool Showdown

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Mikel Arteta faces another injury concern before Arsenal's crucial match against Liverpool. Riccardo Calafiori left the field injured during their narrow 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League. The victory was secured by a Dmytro Riznyk own goal after Gabriel Martinelli's shot hit the post and rebounded off Riznyk's back. Arsenal will also be without Bukayo Saka, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and William Saliba, suspended after a red card against Bournemouth.

Calafiori's injury adds to Arteta's worries as he remains uncertain about the defender's availability for the weekend clash. "Riccy, I don't know, he felt something and could not continue playing so [it's a] bit of a worry," Arteta told TNT Sports. In his post-match press conference, Arteta further expressed concern, saying, "He had to come off because he felt something. I don't know the extent of that. So, in that sense, not great news."

Arsenal's performance against Shakhtar was not their best. Leandro Trossard missed a penalty 13 minutes before full-time, while David Raya made a crucial save to maintain their lead. Despite this, Arsenal achieved their third consecutive clean sheet in the Champions League, a feat last accomplished under Arsene Wenger in November 2007.

The Gunners managed only 1.8 expected goals (xG) from 13 shots on Tuesday, with five hitting the target. Arteta was satisfied with his team's response despite these challenges. "Very pleased with the result," he stated. "Always difficult in Champions League." He acknowledged they should have scored more but noted fatigue after playing with ten men recently.

Arteta also commented on Trossard's penalty miss: "I don't know if [the penalty miss] was related to fatigue." He praised Shakhtar for their bravery and warned about giving them possession: "When you give them time on the ball, and you lose the ball, you will suffer." Regarding Kai Havertz not taking the penalty, Arteta said, "I don't know [why Kai Havertz didn't take the penalty]. He is one of the takers, but Leo took it."

As Arsenal prepares for Liverpool without key players like Saka and Saliba, Arteta must strategise carefully to maintain momentum in both domestic and European competitions. The team will need to overcome these setbacks to continue their strong form in upcoming matches.