Arsenal have completed just one summer signing so far as they recruited Italy sensation Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.
The defender impressed at Euro 2024 despite Italy’s last-16 exit, and Arsenal beat competition from Juventus to secure his signature.
The 22-year-old is yet to appear in competitive action, but could be thrown into the deep end as Arsenal travel to face Unai Emery’s Aston Villa this weekend.
Oleksandr Zinchenko performed well against Wolves, but Arsenal fans are worried about his defensive vulnerabilities against a strong Aston Villa side, and this could see Calafiori at least come off the bench if not start.
Ben White has now praised Calafiori ahead of his potential debut, and has claimed that the Italian has settled well since his arrival.
Ben White praises Arsenal summer signing Riccardo Calafiori
Speaking to Arsenal club media, White explained why Calafiori may now be ready to make his debut, and highlighted his qualities.
“He’s amazing. He’s fit right in and is doing well. He’s been training with us for a few weeks and has settled well,” White stated of Calafiori.
“He’s strong, big, aggressive and a very front foot defender. He gives us a different type of full back so it’s good for everyone to compete and bring up the levels for everyone.
Arsenal recorded a clean sheet in their first game, and White has praised the defensive structure of the whole team.
“When you see the defensive record you just look at the back four and the goalie, but it’s much bigger than that. Most of the attacking players have a massive part to play in it.
“Most of the time the ball doesn’t even get back to us because of the high press and the attackers doing so well for us.”
Could Riccardo Calafiori make his Arsenal debut against Aston Villa?
Calafiori joined just before the start of the season, and made an appearance during the Emirates Cup, but was an unused substitute in Arsenal’s opening day victory over Wolves.
It appears that Calafiori will be eased in slowly, but with Aston Villa set to be a tough trip, he could be needed at left-back.
Jurrien Timber is also an option, but he may also be used sparingly for now as he continues his recovery to full fitness after a long-term injury.
It remains to be seen whether Calafiori is ready to start, but he will hope to play some part as Arsenal aim to win at a ground where they lost 1-0 last season, and for now, Zinchenko looks set to keep his place.
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