Arsenal have announced the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. The 22 year old has signed a contract for five years and the deal has cost the club around £42m. Manager Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen the squad depth this season. A defender of his quality can become a huge asset for the Gunners to win titles this year. They finished runners up in the league twice in a row, prompting the urgency to build a stronger side. The Italian defender produced stellar performances for his country in the Euros which caught the eyes of the North London outfit.
The Italian was key to Bologna’s stunning season last year under Thiago Motta as they qualified for the Champions league this season. He helped the Italian side keep 17 cleansheets in Serie A. The youngster also provided 5 assists and scored twice in 30 apps. He can be deployed as a centre-back primarily and also as a left-back. The 22 year old has been likened to that of AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini due to his versatile playing style. The legendary defender was comfortable in possession of the ball and was not afraid to take risks. The ability to track runners and shield the backline made him stand out from others. The young lad is one of the top prospects in football right now and he has joined the prefect club to improve his level.
Why do the Gunners need Riccardo Calafiori?
Arsenal have been building a strong team since last few seasons but haven’t really received the fruits of labour. The Gunners agonizingly finished second by a margin of 2 points to Manchester City. Arteta seeks new additions to the squad to mount resurgence against the dominating Cityzens. Defensively Arteta’s men have been solid last season conceding only 29 goals and kept 18 cleansheets. Arguably the North Londoners were the best team defensively last season.
However, Arsenal have been suffering from injury issues very often. Good squad depth is very essential for any club participating in multiple competitions. Riccardo Calafiori is one of the top prospects in world football right now, and Arsenal has a good reputation for nurturing talents. The Italian is a versatile defender and can play as a fullback. He is excellent in man marking opposition players and tracking the runs in behind.
Arteta’s playing style is possession based and often requires a high line. The 22 year old is fast and is good at sensing danger. Him being comfortable in possession will help Arsenal build up from the back easily. He can disrupt opposition defence with accurate long passes and midfield breaking through passes. His tall and physical structure is best suited for Premier league’s highly physical football. He has been a starter for both his club and country. Fans are very excited and there is a lot of expectations on him.
Why Calafiori chose the Emirates?
The young Italian defender played all 4 games for Italy in the Euros and impressed the viewers. Clubs all over the world wanted his signature. He was linked with big clubs like Bayern Munich and Real Madrid but he had his mind set on joining the North London side. Arsenal have been following him since the Euros and approached him once his tournament got over.
The defender believes that Mikel Arteta’s project is unique and settled. Although he could have won trophies at clubs like Bayern and Madrid, he plans on becoming a hero at the Emirates. The youngster expressed his joy in an interview for Arsenal TV He says;
It’s just the best project for myself for the next years, I spoke a lot with the coach, with Edu… they convinced me, but I was already convinced by myself! Premier League was my dream since I was 12! I can’t wait.”
Riccardo Calafiori has been an Arsenal fan since childhood and it is his dream come true. Mikel Arteta constantly explained his project to the youngster offering him a big role which earned his trust. He has completed the medical tests and is expected to make his unofficial debut in a friendly against Liverpool on Thursday.
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