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Riccardo Calafiori will wear the number 33 for Arsenal after completing his move from Bologna.
Calafiori, who impressed for Italy at Euro 2024, has finally completed a move worth around £42million. It’s the same number he wore for Bologna last season as they qualified for the Champions League, and for Basel in the season before that.
The number has largely been associated with goalkeepers at Arsenal. It belonged to Arthur Okonkwo before he left for Wrexham earlier this summer, while Petr Cech also wore 33 during his three years in North London.
Calafiori becomes Arsenal’s second senior signing this summer, following goalkeeper David Raya, who joined permanently after a year on loan from Brentford. Speaking to club media about the deal, Gunners sporting director Edu shed more light on the efforts made behind the scenes to bring Calafiori to the club.
“It has been a great team effort in completing this transfer and we welcome Riccardo to the family,” Edu said. The new arrival has signed what has been described as a “long-term” contract with Arsenal.
“We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level,” Edu continued. “He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.
“Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer. Mikel and our coaches are excited to start working with Riccardo, and we all look forward to seeing him in our shirt.”
“It feels amazing,” Calafiori said after completing his move. “It was tough until now, but finally we’re here and I cannot wait to start to train with the team and play for the fans.
“It’s actually been my dream since I was 12 or 13 years old, because I can see the level of the league here and the best players in the world, for me, play here. It’s a dream and not only for me, but for everybody.
“I spoke a lot with the coach and with Edu, and they convinced me, but I was already convinced by myself,” Riccardo added. “I think it’s the best project for me for the next few years, and I think I will improve as a player.
“I just met [Jorginho] one month ago, but I can see that he’s a really good guy. I was already convinced but he forced me. He said: ‘come, come, come! You will enjoy being here, the team is amazing and the staff, everything is good.’ You can see that already from the first few minutes here.” – Mirror
Online Reporter