Riccardo Calafiori has quickly made waves at Arsenal since his summer move from Bologna, with the 22-year-old defender recently scoring a sensational goal against Manchester City in a thrilling 2-2 Premier League draw. Calafiori’s £42 million transfer to the Gunners marked his departure from Serie A, where he had a standout season in 2023/24 under Thiago Motta at Bologna.
Despite Juventus’ interest in bringing him to Turin, Calafiori chose Arsenal, and he is now adapting to life in the Premier League. Though he has yet to secure a regular starting position under Mikel Arteta, his impressive performance at the Etihad Stadium last weekend has set him on a path toward becoming a first-team regular.
In a recent interview with TG1, Calafiori reflected on the differences between Serie A and the Premier League, explaining that while both leagues are highly competitive, the style and intensity of play in England offer a unique challenge. “I don’t feel like saying the Premier League is superior to Serie A, but it’s certainly different,” Calafiori noted. “There is more intensity here, and it’s a different style of football. Coming to England was the right step for my career.”
Calafiori also spoke about his adjustment to life at Arsenal, attributing his smooth transition to the support of his teammates and staff. “I settled in really well thanks to my teammates and the people who work here,” he said. “It’s perhaps a bit early to judge, but I believe I’ve made a good impression so far.”
Following his standout display against Manchester City, Calafiori could be in line for his first Champions League start as Arsenal prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain. His growing confidence and ability to handle the demands of Premier League football have raised expectations for the Italian defender, who is quickly becoming an integral part of Arteta’s squad.
As Calafiori continues to adapt to the Premier League, his comparison of the two top European leagues highlights the unique challenges faced by players moving between them. While Serie A offers tactical sophistication, Calafiori believes the Premier League’s higher intensity is shaping him into a more complete player. Arsenal fans will be eager to see more from their new defensive star as the season progresses.
