Arsenal’s new signing, Riccardo Calafiori, had an eventful outing in Arsenal’s 4-2 victory over Leicester City last weekend. Mikel Arteta’s side had a comfortable 2-0 lead going into half time, but two James Justin goals ruffled Arsenal feathers and the game was finally settled late on with a Wilfred Ndidi own goal and a Kai Havertz strike at point-blank range.
With Ben White still injured, Jurrien Timber retained his place on the right back slot, allowing Calafiori to deputize as a left back. The Italian played very well, inverting into midfield to support the attack, and he had a shot accuracy of 100 percent, firing three strikes that were all saved by the game’s undoubted Man of the Match, Mads Hermansen.
Calafiori had an xG of 0.48, xGOT of 1.33, xA of 0.28, created two chances, had 92 touches, won 88 percent of his aerial duels and 60 percent of his ground duels. It was truly an all-action performance for the Italian full back.
Late on, Calafiori landed rather awkwardly on his left leg when he attempted a strong header goalwards from a Bukayo Saka in-swinging corner. He visibly looked in pain and did his best to shrug the discomfort off. That header was on the 88th minute and he remained on the pitch to support the attack as Arsenal left it really late to secure victory.
We will be eagerly anticipating Mikel Arteta pre-match press conference against Paris St. Germain to get further information on the matter. It will be a big blow to lose Calafiori for such an important clash, especially with Oleksandr Zinchenko and Ben White still injured.
