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Riccardo Calafiori: Euro 2024 Achievements and Career Move to Arsenal

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1 year ago

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Riccardo Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori, a rising star in Italian football, made headlines with his impressive performances for both club and country.

After debuting for Italy U21 in 2021, he earned his first senior call-up for UEFA Euro 2024.

Calafiori’s tournament journey was marked by significant moments, including his debut against Albania and a crucial assist in a draw with Croatia.

Despite a challenging match against Spain and a booking that sidelined him, Calafiori showcased his potential on the international stage.

Who Is Riccardo Calafiori?

Riccardo Calafiori, born May 19, 2002, is a standout Italian footballer playing as a defender for Arsenal in the Premier League and the Italy national team.
Known for his physicality, positioning, and marking, Calafiori excels in both a back three and back four. His aggressive style and anticipation make him a formidable opponent.
A powerful, quick player, he shines with his technique and long-range shooting.
His height aids in aerial duels, while his ability to carry the ball and contribute offensively as a full-back, with crosses and quick recoveries, enhances his team’s defense.

Professional Career

Riccardo Calafiori, a youth product of Roma, signed his first contract on June 16, 2018.

Despite a severe knee injury on October 2, 2018, he made his professional and Serie A debut on August 1, 2020, in a 3–1 win over Juventus.

He won a penalty and had a goal disallowed for an out-of-play ball.

On December 3, 2020, Calafiori scored his first professional goal in a Europa League match against Young Boys.

He joined Genoa on loan on January 14, 2022, before moving to Basel on August 30, 2022, with a 3-year contract. His Basel debut came on October 9, 2022, in a 1–0 loss to Lugano.

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Calafiori returned to Serie A with Bologna on August 31, 2023. Under coach Thiago Motta, he thrived as a centre-back.

On May 20, 2024, he scored twice in a 3–3 draw against Juventus and helped Bologna secure a top-five finish and a UEFA Champions League spot for the first time since 1964–65.

Riccardo Calafiori Current Club

Arsenal have secured Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori in a £42 million deal. Calafiori signed a five-year contract, ending a lengthy transfer saga.

Sporting director Edu praised the move, saying, “It took a great team effort to complete this transfer. We’re excited to welcome Riccardo, who fits our strategy perfectly.

At 22, he brings both quality and experience. He impressed in Serie A last season and had strong performances for Italy in the Euros. Mikel and the coaches are eager to work with him and see him in an Arsenal shirt.”

Arsenal honor Riccardo Calafiori’s request by revealing his new shirt number

Arsenal have signed Riccardo Calafiori and assigned him the No. 33 shirt. The Gunners secured Calafiori from Bologna for up to £42 million, marking their second major signing of the summer after David Raya’s permanent move from Brentford.

The No. 33 shirt, previously worn by goalkeepers like Petr Čech and Mat Ryan, is a personal choice for Calafiori, who wore it at Bologna and Basel.

International career

On September 3, 2021, Riccardo Calafiori debuted for Italy U21 as a substitute in a 3–0 win over Luxembourg.

On May 23, 2024, he received his first call-up to the Italy senior team for UEFA Euro 2024. Calafiori debuted on June 4, coming on in the 85th minute of a 0–0 friendly draw against Turkey.

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He made his competitive debut on June 15, starting in a 2–1 win over Albania, becoming the second-youngest Italian to play in a European Championship.

He scored an own goal in a 1–0 loss to Spain but assisted Mattia Zaccagni in a crucial 1–1 draw with Croatia, helping Italy advance to the round of 16.

However, a booking in that match ruled him out of the 2–0 loss to Switzerland, which ended Italy’s tournament.

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