Arsenal’s new Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori has shared details of his heartfelt conversation with fellow countryman Jorginho that influenced his decision to join the Emirates.
The 22-year-old has transferred from Bologna to Arsenal in a significant £42 million deal, securing the number 33 jersey for the 2024-25 Premier League season.
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Calafiori, who impressed during Euro 2024, was sidelined by a ban when the Azzurri were eliminated by Switzerland.
Jorginho spoke with Calafiori just before the former Roma player’s international debut. In an interview with the club’s media team, Calafiori revealed how Jorginho convinced him to join the Gunners.
“I just met [Jorginho] one month ago, but I can see that he’s a really good guy,” Calafiori enthusiastically shared. “I was already convinced but he forced me,” reports the Mirror.
“He said: ‘Come, come, come! You will enjoy being here, the team is amazing and the staff, everything is good.’ You can see that already from the first few minutes here.”
Reflecting on his ambitions, he added: “It’s actually been my dream since I was 12 or 13 years old, because I can see the level of the league here and the best players in the world, for me, play here. It’s a dream and not only for me, but for everybody.”
Edu – Arsenal’s Sporting Director – outlined the planning behind the transfer, stating: “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,” and further added: “He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.”
He continued to commend the new addition: “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.”
