Mikel Arteta will have spent his summer plotting ways to take his Arsenal squad to the next level.
Arsenal came agonisingly close to being crowned Premier League champions last season, as they were able to take the title race down to the final match of the campaign, when they were ultimately pipped to the post by Manchester City.
The Gunners have not done a huge amount of business so far this summer, though. David Raya’s loan switch from Brentford has been converted into a permanent move, and Riccardo Calafiori was signed from Bologna.
The Italian defender’s versatility means that he can comfortably slot in at both left-back and in the heart of the rearguard. He impressed in Serie A last season, and at Euro 2024 earlier this summer, and represents an exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s ranks.
Calafiori is expected to feature at left-back primarily, and will bring extra physicality and aerial prowess to the Gunners’ back line. However, he is also confident and assured on the ball and possesses real attacking instincts.
The 22-year-old can be relied upon to progress the ball forwards, and will help to make Arsenal a more cohesive attacking force on the left flank of the pitch.
Leon Osman applauds Mikel Arteta for Riccardo Calafiori deal
Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman, who once featured alongside Arteta in the middle of the park for the Toffees, feels that Calafiori could have a seismic impact at the Emirates Stadium.
As quoted by the official Premier League website, the pundit named Calafiori as the most exciting signing to have been made by a Premier League club so far this summer and stated that the player is: “Not one to get you out of your seat, but could bring a title.”
Certainly, if Calafiori can make the difference in improving just a few results over the course of the campaign then that could easily prove the difference between Arsenal being crowned champions and falling just short again.
Arsenal still need more summer signings
Whilst Calafiori certainly looks to have all the makings of a smart signing, the Gunners still need more.
There is an especially urgent need for reinforcements in the middle of the park. Jorginho has begun to decline, and Thomas Partey’s injury record makes him impossible to rely upon on any kind of long-term basis.
Arsenal are working to sign Mikel Merino. The Real Sociedad star would provide the extra midfield depth that Arteta requires.
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