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.

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.