£40m star insists no regrets over Arsenal move despite tough season

Gidibam Web4 days ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori says he has no regrets about joining the club last summer, despite enduring an injury-hit debut season in north London. The Italian, who arrived from Bologna in a deal worth around £40 million, is determined to put his fitness struggles behind him and make a bigger impact next season.

Calafiori’s first year at Arsenal has been disrupted by a series of injuries, which have limited him to just six starts since January. The 22-year-old has suffered five separate spells on the sidelines, allowing academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly to emerge as Mikel Arteta’s preferred option at left-back.

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Despite the setbacks, Calafiori remains upbeat. Speaking to Gianluca Di Marzio after Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Newcastle on Sunday, he said: “I am very happy at Arsenal. For me personally, it was a great experience. Obviously, when you win trophies it’s always better, but I tested myself in the toughest league in the world and proved that I belong here. I have no regrets—absolutely none.”

***Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori (Image credit: Getty Images)***

He added: “I always feel comfortable in any position I’m asked to play and try to help the team. What I lacked this year was continuity. That’s my goal for next season—consistency. When I was fit, I played and made a difference. I just need to stay in shape all year.”

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Calafiori could be in line for a start in Arsenal final Premier League game of the season against Southampton on May 25. First-choice centre-back William Saliba was forced off at half-time against Newcastle with a suspected hamstring injury, and manager Mikel Arteta confirmed post-match that the Frenchman had “felt something” and had to be substituted.

With fellow defender Jurrien Timber also sidelined due to an ankle problem — and possibly needing surgery — Calafiori may have a chance to end his debut season on a high.