Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that left-back Riccardo Calafiori was held out of the starting lineup against Everton due to a minor muscle concern. The Italy international, who has been a near ever-present in the starting XI this season, was limited to a substitute role as Myles Lewis-Skelly deputised.
Speaking after the 2-0 victory over the Toffees, Arteta explained that Calafiori experienced a slight muscle issue in the build-up to the match, prompting a precautionary approach. The decision paid off as Arsenal moved level on points with Premier League leaders Manchester City, who suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa earlier in the day.
The Gunners now turn their attention to Carabao Cup fourth-round action away at Fleetwood Town, where Arteta is expected to rotate his squad significantly. Calafiori could return to the starting eleven at left-back if deemed fully fit; otherwise, Piero Hincapié may slot into the position following his own recent return from injury.
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