Arsenal fans finally got their wish as Ricardo Calafiori made his long-awaited debut for the club during the Gunners’ 2-0 victory against Olympique Lyonnais in the Emirates Cup.
The Italian youngster, who recently completed his transfer move from Bologna to Arsenal, was met with a hero’s welcome when he came on, and he didn’t disappoint. In just 26 minutes, he showed some real promise with some impressive runs up the pitch and a crucial defensive tackle.
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Arteta on Ricardo Calafiori’s performance and fans’ reception
After the game, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was full of praise for the the Italian’s performance and warm reception from the fans.
”I just love it when the fans react like that to one of your own,” said Arteta, as quoted by Daily Mail.
”The way you feel it straight away, it’s love, you are respected, they are right behind you. And that’s an unbelievable platform for someone to join our club.”
On Calafiori’s performance, the Spanish manager said, ”He brings a lot of versatility because he can play in two or three different positions and especially in attack, occupy different spaces because he’s a real defender.
”When you see his press and physicality, how he goes into duels, it’s unbelievable. He’s done a lot last year, he’s a player that can improve us.”
Bukayo Saka, recently nominated for the Men’s 2024 PFA Young Player of the Year award also had his first start for the club, alongside midfielder Declan Rice, who provided the assists for both goals scored from corner kicks.
The Gunners will be looking to take this impressive form into the new season as they prepare to face Wolverhampton Wanderers in their first Premier League game on August 17.
