Calafiori breaks silence after return from injury: ‘I’ve missed you’

Italy and Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori returned to action after a month on Saturday, contributing to Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest: ‘I’ve missed you a lot, guys, the atmosphere and energy were unbelievable.’

The Italian defender had missed six games across all competitions before the November break due to a knee injury sustained on October 22 during a Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk.

The ex-Bologna star started against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium yesterday and was replaced after 66 minutes.

“So happy to be back with an amazing win; I’ve missed you a lot, guys,” Calafiori wrote on Instagram, posting a picture with his Arsenal teammate Mikel Merino.

“The Atmosphere and energy were unbelievable today, thanks for the support!”

Calafiori shared the same picture on his Instagram stories as well, adding: “No better feeling, I’ve missed this atmosphere.”

The Italian defender joined Arsenal from Bologna last summer in a deal believed to be worth circa €50m.

The Italy international missed the Azzurri’s latest Nations League game against Belgium and France.

Calafiori now has one goal in 11 appearances across all competitions with Arsenal this season.