Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta Reveals How Riccardo Calafiori Eagerly Prepared to Join the Team Before His £42 Million Signing

Mikel Arteta shared some exciting news about Arsenal’s latest signing, Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian defender had made his eagerness to join the team clear well before his official signing.

Arteta revealed that Calafiori had already packed his bags and was ready to jump on board whenever Arsenal was ready to bring him in.

The Anticipation for the Liverpool Match

Calafiori, who comes from Bologna, has signed a five-year contract with Arsenal, valued at around £42 million. He joined the squad in Philadelphia on Monday and is now hoping to make his debut in Wednesday’s match against Liverpool at Lincoln Financial Field.

However, Arteta noted that the young defender had a busy couple of days, including a long flight and medical examinations. “He hasn’t had much time to integrate with the team yet,” Arteta said. ”

We’ll see how he’s feeling, and if he’s ready, he might get a few minutes on the pitch. But we won’t rush him if he’s not fully prepared.”

What Calafiori Brings to Arsenal

Arteta elaborated on why Calafiori was a crucial addition.

The manager explained that they had been keeping an eye on him for about a year, particularly because Arsenal had a thin defensive line last season.

With key players like Willy Saliba playing every Premier League minute, the team needed more depth.

Calafiori is seen as a significant talent with the skills and qualities that could enhance Arsenal’s performance. Arteta believes that Calafiori’s potential for growth and his drive to improve will benefit the team greatly.