Riccardo Calafiori has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award after an outstanding start to Arsenal’s title defence.
The Italy international is one of eight players shortlisted for the first award of the 2026/27 season after helping Mikel Arteta’s side win both of their opening league fixtures.
According to the Premier League’s official shortlist, Calafiori registered two assists across victories over Coventry City and Aston Villa while contributing to two clean sheets.
Arsenal have remarkably allowed just one shot on target across those matches.
🚨 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋: Riccardo Calafiori has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month for August 2026. ✅🏆 pic.twitter.com/hW8wnRKRB5
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) September 3, 2026
Calafiori rewards Arteta faith at Arsenal
Calafiori’s attacking influence has been particularly impressive.
He created Arsenal’s opening Premier League goal of the campaign with a low delivery for Kai Havertz during the 3-0 victory over Coventry.
The 24-year-old then produced the decisive contribution at Villa Park.
Eberechi Eze released Calafiori down the left before the defender drove a dangerous ball across goal for Bukayo Saka to score the winner.
Calafiori earned an 8.5 rating in our Arsenal player ratings against Aston Villa, with his aggressive movement repeatedly causing Villa problems.
Our Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal match report also highlighted his role in the winning goal.
His performances strengthen his grip on the left-back position ahead of Chelsea’s visit to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Calafiori faces competition for the award from Rayan Cherki, Bruno Fernandes, Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro, Mamadou Sangare, Konstantinos Tzolakis and Yoane Wissa.
There is further Arsenal representation in the monthly awards.
Arteta has also been nominated for Premier League Manager of the Month after guiding the champions to six points, four goals and two clean sheets from their opening two fixtures.
Arsenal could hardly have started their title defence more efficiently.
Calafiori has been right at the heart of it.
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