Bonucci makes Calafiori-Italy prediction but is ‘sorry’ to see him join Arsenal

Leonardo Bonucci believes Riccardo Calafiori will be a ‘reference point’ for Italy’s national team in the next 15 years but hoped to see the Bologna defender join Juventus.

Former Juventus and Italy star Bonucci released an interview with Sky Sport Italia un Sunday evening, when he shared his thoughts on two specific transfers. Alessandro Buongiorno to Napoli and Calafiori to Arsenal.

“Alessandro couldn’t have made a better choice, working with Conte is important to become one of the best defenders in the world,” said Bonucci.

Bonucci makes Calafiori prediction but is ‘sorry’ to see him join Arsenal

Conte’s Napoli have already announced the signing of the ex-Torino defender, who has moved to the Stadio Maradona for €40m, including add-ons.

Calafiori, on the other hand, is expected to join Arsenal this week after Bologna dropped him for the second part of pre-season.

“I am sorry for his transfer [to Arsenal],” said the ex-defender.

“I would have loved to see him at Juventus. He’s a defender with different skill sets from the one we are accustomed to seeing. He plays with personality. We export a great defender who will be a reference point for the national team in the next 15 years.”

Calafiori spent just one season at Bologna, contributing to the Rossoblu’s first qualification for the Champions League in 60 years. He was among the best Italy players at the Euros despite a disappointing elimination in the Round of 16.

During the same interview, Bonucci warned his ex-teammate Federico Chiesa saying that the Italian star “has had difficulties in terms of physicality and character.”