Riccardo Calafiori knew he was joining an already brilliant Arsenal defence when he arrived.
The Italian has done a great job of getting himself into the team when fit and after adjusting to being mainly a left-back over a central defender, Calafiori is now a key player for the Gunners.
As we know, Arsenal’s back four is marshalled by both William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
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Both have been exceptional and are widely regarded as the finest defensive partnership in Europe.
When it comes to Gabriel in particular, his goals stand out. Having netted four times already, he is a huge threat but according to Calafiori, it is something else that impresses him.
Riccardo Calafiori says why he’s so impressed by Gabriel Magalhaes
The best defenders in the game know when they see another defender at the top of their game.
Calafiori has definitely stepped up to the challenge at Arsenal since signing but he’s still been left in awe of his defensive partners at the same time.
Indeed, speaking to Sports Illustrated, Calafiori commented on just what’s so impressive about Gabriel.
“I have an amazing relationship with them and they are both top guys as well. Like for example, Gabi, I’ve never seen someone like so focused and so active during the game. I think his leadership, you can really feel it on the pitch,” Calafiori admitted.
Speaking on Saliba as well, the Italian had high praise for the Frenchman.
“And Wilo, come on. He has everything as well. It’s so powerful, so strong, so fast. It’s so elegant with the ball as well. I love them both.”
- READ MORE: Riccardo Calafiori names the Arsenal player who shocked him on his first ever day at the club
Arsenal’s record this season with Gabriel, Saliba and Calafiori
Mikel Arteta knows he is blessed to have three defenders like this and along with Jurrien Timber and Ben White, he has a sound five to choose from.
In terms of Saliba, Gabriel and Calafiori, their record when all featuring is almost perfect.
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In the Premier League, they have started 14 games together and won 11, drawing three and remaining unbeaten. In Europe, it’s five out of five, while the cup competitions in England show one win and one draw so far.
Put simply, this trio are vital for the Gunners and the stats back it up.
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