Arsenal is thrilled to announce the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Serie A club Bologna on a long-term contract. The 22-year-old defender, who impressed as part of Italy’s squad at Euro 2024, joins after a standout season anchoring Bologna’s defense.
Calafiori’s journey began in Roma’s esteemed youth academy, where he spent 12 years honing his skills and progressing to the first team. During the 2021/22 season, he gained valuable experience on loan at Genoa, which further developed his capabilities.
Arsenal’s Sporting Director Edu expressed his enthusiasm for the new signing:
“It has been a great team effort in completing this transfer, and we welcome Riccardo to the family. We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level. Riccardo Calafiori is 22 but brings quality and experience.”
“He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player. Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. “He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer. Mikel and our coaches are excited to start working with Riccardo, and we all look forward to seeing him in our shirt.”
Head Coach Mikel Arteta echoed these sentiments, adding:
“We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defense. Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.”
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive. We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
Riccardo Calafiori will don the number 33 shirt and has already joined his new teammates in Philadelphia as Arsenal continues their preparations for the 2024/25 season. The Gunners’ next match is against Liverpool on Wednesday, July 31.
Stay tuned as we watch this exciting young talent grow and make his mark in the Premier League with Arsenal.
