Arsenal is delighted to announce the signing of Italian international Riccardo Calafiori

Official Announcement: Arsenal Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Italian international Riccardo Calafiori from Serie A club Bologna on a long-term contract.



The 22-year-old defender was included in the Italian national team squad for the 2024 European Championship, and his impressive performances as the defensive cornerstone for Bologna last season have made a significant impact.

Riccardo's professional career began in the Roma youth academy, where he spent 12 years progressing from the youth teams to the first team. During his time at Roma, he was loaned to Genoa in the 2021/22 season, gaining valuable experience. In August 2022, the young defender, who has represented Italy at various youth levels, transferred to Swiss club Basel, becoming a key player for the team and making 26 league appearances that season. In August 2023, Riccardo returned to Italy by transferring to Bologna, where his outstanding performances have brought him back to his home country.

Last season, Riccardo was the leading figure in Bologna's defense, becoming one of the strongest and most consistent players in Serie A. He played a crucial role in helping Bologna achieve an impressive fifth place in the league and securing Champions League qualification for the first time in 60 years. Riccardo's dominance and physical prowess not only earned him a spot in the European Championship but also saw him named Serie A Player of the Month in May 2024.

Arsenal's Sporting Director, Edu, commented: "Our team put in tremendous effort to complete this transfer, and we welcome Riccardo to our family."

"Signing Riccardo is part of our strategy to bring in players who meet our criteria, enhancing our squad to compete at the highest level. Despite being only 22, he possesses high quality and extensive experience. He will soon grow into a true Arsenal player."

"Riccardo has consistently shown his excellent qualities in both his club and national team. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season and delivered an outstanding performance for Italy in this summer's European Championship. Mikel and our coaching staff are all excited to start working with Riccardo, and we look forward to seeing him in our jersey."

Arsenal Head Coach, Mikel Arteta, stated: "We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing, providing significant strength to our defense."

"Riccardo has a distinctive personality and special abilities, which will make us stronger as we strive to win important trophies. His performances for Bologna and the Italian national team in recent seasons have shown immense potential, and his progress and development over the past year have been impressive."

"We look forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the team, and supporting him in the days ahead."

Riccardo will wear the number 33 jersey and has already traveled to Philadelphia, USA, to join his new teammates as we continue our preparations for the 2024/25 season.