Riccardo Calafiori just made a bold claim about Arsenal fans after feeling connection ‘straight away’

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Riccardo Calafiori has quickly settled in to life at Arsenal.

Arsenal signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna in the recent summer transfer window. 

The Italian defender arrived at the Emirates Stadium with his reputation having been boosted by his form at Euro 2024.

The versatile defender has already impressed in North London. Against Leicester City last time out, operating at left-back, he combined well with Gabriel Martinelli.

Prior to that, against Manchester City, he opened his account for his new club with a spectacular strike from range. Arsenal fans have hailed Calafiori for his recent form and will be looking forward to seeing what else there is to come from the new arrival.

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Riccardo Calafiori claims connection with Arsenal fans

Calafiori has certainly felt this positive energy from the stands at the Emirates Stadium coming in his direction.

As quoted by Corriere dello Sport, the 22-year-old recently said: “It’s a bit early too say that I’ve won over the fans, but I’ve made them love me straight away. 

“I’ve settled in really well here thanks to my teammates, thanks to the whole organisation that works within the club. So the goal is a result of the way they helped me straight away.”

Mikel Arteta will be delighted to hear that Calafiori already feels so comfortable in his new surroundings, and has connected with the fans and his new Arsenal teammates.

How Mikel Arteta will use Riccardo Calafiori

Calafiori has most regularly featured at left-back for Gunners, but played in the heart of the rearguard in the EFL Cup clash against Bolton.

In each of these positions, the 6-cap Italy international has displayed impressive attacking instincts. Arteta is clearly keen for Calafiori to push forward and play on the front foot. With this freedom afforded to him, Calafiori has the capacity to make his presence felt in the final third.

As either a left-back or centre-back, he will seek to get forward, create chances for his teammates, and attack the box himself. He has also shown that he is not afraid to fire an effort on goal from distance.

Calafiori is excited about being a Premier League player, and looks to have all the attributes required for a modern defender to thrive in the top flight of English football.