Yahoo Sports Calafiori convinced by Arsenal ‘project’ and discusses potential role following £42m transfer
Riccardo Calafiori confirmed that he passed over other clubs to complete his transfer to Arsenal after they presented the ‘best project’ to him.
The Italian defender has joined the Gunners from Bologna in a deal worth up to £42m including add-ons.
The 22-year-old has joined up with his new teammates in Philadelphia, where he could make his Arsenal debut against Liverpool in a pre-season friendly.
The north London outfit were one of several clubs, including Chelsea, chasing Calafiori‘s signature following his impressive performances at Euro 2024, but he explained why he ended up moving to the Emirates Stadium.
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“I spoke for almost two months with the coach [Mikel Arteta] and [sporting director] Edu,” Calafiori said.
“It was really tough [that the negotiations took a while]. But I am here and need to keep improving day by day in training. I was really convinced to come here. For me, it is the best project that I could have to improve as a player.
“There were other clubs but I don’t care anymore. I am here and I want to win trophies. This is the best project because the team is young and can win trophies. My mentality is to win.
“I can play in different positions, I don’t care where but I just want to play. I was here in January to watch Arsenal versus Crystal Palace. As soon as I am really fit, I hope to help the team.”
Calafiori is a versatile player who can play at centre-back or left-back, while he can also play as an inverted full-back who can tuck into midfield. But he reiterated that he doesn’t mind where he’s asked to play.
“I didn’t speak a lot about the role (with Arteta). I just want to play and improve,” he said.
“We’ll see. It’s all about the team, which necessity we have. I can play different positions, I don’t care, I really love to play. I just want to play.”
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