The Italian national team’s preparations for their crucial World Cup qualifier against Norway have hit a bump, as midfielder Manuel Locatelli has sustained an injury during training.
The Juventus star, recently recalled by head coach Luciano Spalletti, now faces a race against time to recover.
Locatelli picked up a right ankle injury during Italy’s most recent training session. Initial concerns pointed to a calf issue, but medical assessments confirmed that the problem lies in the ankle.
The 26-year-old was spotted with a heavily bandaged ankle, and he underwent an MRI scan this morning to assess the extent of the damage.
With Italy set to face Norway on Friday in what could prove decisive for their qualification hopes, Locatelli’s availability is now highly doubtful.
The Azzurri will also play Moldova on Monday, June 9, but it remains unclear whether Locatelli will recover in time for that match either.
The news doesn’t just concern Italy Juventus are also monitoring the situation closely.
Although the Serie A season is over, the Bianconeri are preparing for the upcoming Club World Cup, with a training camp underway at Continassa ahead of their departure for the United States on June 14.
If the injury is deemed serious, Locatelli could be sent back to Turin for treatment, potentially jeopardizing his participation in the prestigious international club competition.
All eyes are now on Locatelli’s medical report. Both Italy and Juventus hope for positive news, but contingency plans may be necessary should the midfielder be ruled out for the upcoming fixtures.
