Arsenal have received a significant injury boost as Riccardo Calafiori was spotted back in full training ahead of their Premier League encounter with Burnley. The Italy international was substituted at half-time during last Sunday's 1-0 victory over West Ham United due to a knock, raising concerns about his availability.
Calafiori's Return to Training
Despite initial fears, Calafiori was seen rejoining his teammates on the training pitch on Thursday afternoon, actively participating in the session without any apparent discomfort. This development comes after manager Mikel Arteta expressed uncertainty about the defender's fitness earlier in the day.
Speaking to the press, Arteta said: "We don't know whether he's going to be available or not. We still have days ahead. Hopefully it's nothing serious but we will have to wait and see how he reacts." However, the sight of Calafiori training fully suggests he could be ready for Monday's crucial match.
Defensive Concerns Elsewhere
While Calafiori's return is positive, Arsenal face defensive issues on the opposite flank. Ben White was also forced off against West Ham and has since been confirmed to have suffered a "significant" medial knee ligament injury. White will miss the remainder of the season, and his participation in England's World Cup campaign is now in serious doubt.
Additionally, Jurrien Timber has been sidelined since mid-March with a groin problem, though there is hope he could recover in time for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on 30 May in Budapest.
Title Race Implications
Arsenal are closing in on the Premier League title with just two games remaining. A victory over Burnley on Monday night would secure the championship if Manchester City fail to beat Bournemouth on Tuesday. Burnley have already been relegated and have managed only one league win this calendar year.
The Gunners will be eager to capitalize on their momentum, and Calafiori's potential availability adds to their optimism for the run-in.
