Arsenal Players

General Information

Apologies for the incomplete response. Here’s the full general information on Riccardo Calafiori, continuing from where it left off:

Riccardo Calafiori, born May 19, 2002, in Rome, Italy, is an Italian professional footballer who plays as a defender, primarily a centre-back or left-back, for Arsenal in the Premier League and the Italy national team. Standing at 1.88m, he is known for his versatility, ball-playing ability, physicality, and attacking contributions from defensive positions.

Club Career:

• Roma (2018–2020): Rose through Roma’s academy, debuting in Serie A in August 2020. Made 3 appearances but limited opportunities led to his departure.
• Genoa (2021–2022): Loaned to Genoa, playing 10 games in Serie A, gaining experience despite the club’s struggles.
• Basel (2022–2023): Moved to Swiss Super League, appearing in 34 games, scoring 1 goal, and showcasing his versatility.
• Bologna (2023–2024): Returned to Serie A, thriving under Thiago Motta. Played 30 games in 2023–24, scoring 2 goals, and helped Bologna qualify for the UEFA Champions League. Named Serie A Player of the Month (April 2024).
• Arsenal (2024–present): Signed for £42 million in July 2024. As of June 2025, has made 29 appearances, scoring 2 goals (e.g., vs. Manchester City, September 2024; vs. Wolves, January 2025). Despite injuries (knee, calf, muscle) in 2024–25, he’s a key squad player, competing at left-back and centre-back.

International Career:

• Italy: Debuted in June 2022 against Germany in the UEFA Nations League. Earned 8 caps as of 2025, starting regularly. Part of Italy’s UEFA Euro 2024 squad, reaching the round of 16. Known for his composure in high-pressure matches.

Playing Style:

• Strengths: Precise passing (88% accuracy), strong in duels (65% aerial win rate), and comfortable carrying the ball forward. Excels in progressive passes and overlaps from left-back.
• Role: Fits Arsenal’s possession-based system, often inverting from left-back or holding the line as a centre-back under Mikel Arteta.

Achievements:

• Club: None major yet, but instrumental in Bologna’s 2023–24 Champions League qualification.
• Individual: Serie A Player of the Month (April 2024).

Personal Life:

Personality: Confident yet grounded, praised for his work ethic.

Background: Born and raised in Rome, a lifelong Roma fan. Survived a serious knee injury at 16, showcasing resilience.

Contract: With Arsenal until 2029, seen as a long-term investment.