Arsenal's official website recently announced the signing of Calafiori. The new recruit from Bologna will cost £42 million and will be tied to a 5-year contract. Impressing while playing at Bologna and for the Italian national team, Calafiori is seen by coach Arteta as an important upgrade for Arsenal's defense next season.
However, the acquisition of Calafiori is not without its doubts. Last season, Arsenal's defense was the best in the Premier League, conceding only 29 goals. Thus, it seems that the positions the Gunners currently have are performing very well, and it remains to be seen where the new recruit from Bologna will fit into Arteta's lineup.
In the past 12 months, Calafiori has emerged as one of the most impressive center-backs in Europe. He helped Bologna secure a historic Champions League spot, finishing 5th in Serie A. At Euro 2024, this center-back continued to make his mark with a crucial goal against Croatia, helping Italy advance past the group stage.
However, Ricardo Calafiori has spent most of his career playing as a left-back. This means that the Bologna signing can play in two positions in Arsenal's lineup next season. This seems to be what coach Arteta always aims for, as he also has other versatile players in defense like Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Jurrien Timber.
Considering the stability of the center-back duo Gabriels and Saliba, it is highly likely that Calafiori will play as a left-back. With Zinchenko frequently injured and not having the best defensive capabilities, the Italian defender will be a significant upgrade.
No matter what position he plays, Calafiori will still be a quality signing for Arsenal. Basel's coach Heiko Vogel spoke about his former player's talent to Sky Sports: "If you want to build play and control the ball, he is very suitable.
Look at Euro 2024, his runs into the midfield broke the opponent's defense. He can do well in both defense and attack, especially in set-piece situations.”
