In the summer of 2024, Ricardo Calafiori joined Arsenal for 45 million euros. The former Bologna defender quickly made an impression, not only in defense but also in attack. Most recently, Calafiori scored a masterpiece that broke the net of Man City in Arsenal's 2-2 draw.
In a recent interview with TG1, Arsenal's new signing was confident about playing in his new environment: "It's probably too early to say, but I think I'm making a good impression. I'm integrating well thanks to my teammates and the staff who help me here."
Having played in Serie A, Calafiori has shown respect for his home league, but admits the Premier League is a more intense competition. “I don’t want to say the Premier League is superior to Serie A, but they are very different leagues,” said the Arsenal new boy.
There is more intensity here and it is a very different style. But coming to England is a new development in my career.”
At just 22 years old, Ricardo Calafiori has made a strong impression in recent times. After shining to help Bologna qualify for the Champions League, he was called up to the Italian national team and is considered the best player in the squad at Euro 2024. It can be said that since the time Chiellini and Bonucci retired, Calafiori is the most notable Italian defender.
This also makes Juventus's sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, regretful. He believes that Serie A should try to keep young talents like Calafiori, instead of letting him go abroad: "It's sad that we couldn't keep Riccardo Calafiori in Serie A. The whole of Italian football should feel regretful. We need to ask ourselves why we couldn't keep such a talent."
