Riccardo Calafiori left Serie A in the summer to link up with Arsenal despite Thiago Motta’s desperate attempt to lure him to Juventus. The Gunners paid Bologna £42 million to sign the versatile defender, who enjoyed a standout 2023/24 season at Renato Dall’Ara.
Calafiori has yet to earn a regular starting berth at the Emirates Stadium. But he took a massive step toward establishing himself as a starter in Mikel Arteta’s set-up with a stunning goal against Manchester City last weekend.
Arsenal slumped to a late equalizer in an ill-tempered 2-2 draw, yet Calafiori can be proud of his performance at the Etihad Stadium. The 22-year-old impressed in his first Premier League start as he seems to be adapting well to the new surroundings.
During an interview with TG1, Calafiori compared Serie A with the Premier League, insisting there’s not much difference between the two championships.
“Perhaps it’s a bit early to say, but I do think I have made a good impression,” Calafiori said, as reported by Corriere dello Sport. “I settled in really well thanks to my teammates and the people who work here.
“I don’t feel like saying it is superior to our league, but it is certainly different. There is more intensity here, it’s a different style. Coming to England was a good step for my career.“
After a reassuring display against Man City, Calafiori could make his first Champions League start for Arsenal when the Gunners encounter Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.
