Arsenal
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Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has addressed speculation linking him with a return to Serie A, insisting he is fully committed to the Gunners despite reported interest from AC Milan.
The 23-year-old joined Arsenal in a £42 million deal from Bologna in July 2024 and made 29 appearances in his debut season. While Calafiori showed flashes of brilliance, including a match-winning goal against Wolves in January, his first campaign in north London was hampered by fitness concerns. The Italian international missed several matches due to knee, calf, and muscle issues.
Reports in Italy recently suggested that AC Milan were exploring a move to bring Calafiori back to the Italian top flight. However, the defender has firmly dismissed talk of an early exit.
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Speaking toGianluca Di Marzio, Calafiori said: “I am very happy at Arsenal.” The Italy international also rejected claims that he regrets joining the Premier League side, despite their trophyless campaign.
Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori (Image credit: Getty Images)
“In my opinion, what was missing was just continuity this year,” he added. “I will try to be more consistent next year. When I was fit, I always played and made a difference. The goal is to stay in shape all season.”
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Reflecting on his debut season in England, Calafiori described it as a valuable experience: “It was a great experience. Obviously, it’s always better when you win trophies. But here, I tested myself in the most difficult and important league in the world. I saw that I can compete, and that made me very happy. Any regrets? None, absolutely.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has remained a vocal supporter of the defender. After Calafiori’s decisive goal in the 1–0 win over Wolves in January, Arteta said: “Riccy can produce these magic moments. It really helped the team, so I’m really glad. He has the experience to make things happen.”
Calafiori has over four years left on his current deal at the Emirates, and both the player and club appear aligned in their desire to continue their journey together, despite growing interest from abroad.
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