The Monza defender, who formerly played for Udinese and is on loan from Arsenal, was one of six people attacked in the Italian city.

A 46-year-old suspect has been detained but the motive for the attack in a supermarket was not clear.

Mari was taken to Niguarda Hospital, where he is reportedly in a serious but stable condition.

Reports have suggested that Mari has injuries to his back, consistent with the other victims, but he is conscious and the Monza manager, Raffaele Palladino, will visit him tonight.

His condition was verified by Monza CEO Adriano Galliani, who said: "Pablo Mari had a fairly deep wound on his back, which fortunately did not touch his vital organs such as the lungs or others. His life is not in danger, he should recover quickly."

Galliani also said on Twitter: "Dear Pablo, we are all here close to you and your family, we love you, keep fighting as you know how to do, you are a warrior and you will get well soon."

Mari, has been an Arsenal player for three-and-a-half seasons and played under Mikel Arteta. The Gunners manager also said that the club had been in contact with Mari's relatives.

"I just found out. I know [technical director] Edu has been in touch with his relatives. He's in hospital but he seems to be okay."

Arteta was speaking at a news conference after his team's match away to PSV Eindhoven in the Europa League.

The individual reported to have died was a cashier from the supermarket where the attack took place, who Italian police have identified as a Bolivian national. Three other people are reported to be in a serious condition.