October 9th 2024.
Riccardo Calafiori recently gave a friendly warning to his Arsenal teammate, Leandro Trossard, ahead of the upcoming match between Italy and Belgium on Thursday. The 22-year-old full-back joined Arsenal this summer from Bologna in a deal worth £42m, following an impressive stint in Serie A.
Despite suffering an injury while on international duty last month, Calafiori has quickly made a name for himself at Arsenal, becoming an integral part of Mikel Arteta's team and helping them secure four consecutive wins. However, with Italy's recent wins against France and Israel in the Nations League, Calafiori's focus now shifts back to international duty.
As he prepares to face off against his fellow Gunners star, Trossard, Calafiori is confident that he will come out on top. "I told him to watch out!" Calafiori jokingly recalled when asked if he had spoken to Trossard before the match. "But in all seriousness, he is a great player and a great friend. However, I will still do my best to secure the three points for my team."
Reflecting on the upcoming match, Calafiori acknowledges that it will be a tough one, with both teams boasting strong players. However, he believes that if Italy plays to their full potential, they can cause problems for any opponent. "We have been performing well in our last two games and we don't want to stop now," he stated confidently.
Having come through the youth academy and making his professional debut at Roma, Calafiori is looking forward to returning to the Stadio Olimpico. He admits that a lot has changed in his life since his last visit, but he is excited to have his friends and family in the stands cheering him on. "It is an extra reason to feel proud," he expressed.
Despite the sudden changes in his career and life in the past few months, Calafiori is embracing the added responsibility that comes with his success. "I do feel some extra pressure, but I see it as a positive thing because it means I am doing well and people have high expectations of me," he shared.
As he continues to make a name for himself at Arsenal and on the international stage, Calafiori remains focused and determined to keep pushing himself to be the best player he can be. And with the support of his teammates, friends, and family, he is ready to face any challenge that comes his way.
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