Arsenal has announced the signing of Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners confirmed the deal in a statement on Monday, stating, "Italy international Riccardo Calafiori has joined us from Serie A side Bologna on a long-term contract."
The 22-year-old defender was part of the Azzurri squad at Euro 2024, following a season of impressive performances at the heart of Bologna's defense. Riccardo began his career in Roma's youth academy, spending 12 years progressing from the youth set-up to the first team. He gained valuable experience on loan at Genoa during the 2021/22 season.
In August 2022, Riccardo moved to Swiss side Basel, making 26 league appearances that season. His high-quality performances earned him a return to Italy, transferring to Bologna in August 2023. Last season, Riccardo emerged as one of the strongest and most consistent defenders in Serie A, playing a crucial role in helping Bologna achieve an impressive fifth-place finish and qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 60 years. His dominant performances earned him a call-up to the Euros and the Serie A Player of the Month award for May 2024.
Sporting Director Edu expressed his delight, saying, "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. He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player."
Edu added, "Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season and performed strongly 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."
Mikel Arteta also welcomed Riccardo, stating, "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 that will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, and his progression in the past year has been impressive. We're looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come."
