Riccardo Calafiori: Amazing Facts That Will Surprise Every Fan!

Riccardo Calafiori was born in Rome, Italy. Riccardo Calafiori emerged from Roma’s youth academy. His career began in 2018 when he signed his first contract with Roma. Though a knee injury nearly derailed his journey, Calafiori’s resilience saw him return stronger.

Biography of Riccardo Calafiori

Professional Debut and Roma Highlights

Calafiori made his Serie A debut for Roma on August 1, 2020, against Juventus, impressing with his defensive skills and dynamic play. In December 2020, he scored his first professional goal in the Europa League, further solidifying his place in Italian football.

Loan to Genoa and Move to Basel

In January 2022, Calafiori joined Genoa on loan, gaining valuable experience. By August 2022, he transferred to Swiss club Basel on a three-year deal, where his performances caught the attention of European clubs.

Return to Italy with Bologna

In 2023, Calafiori returned to Serie A, joining Bologna and transitioning into a center-back role under Thiago Motta. His impressive displays led Bologna to a top-five finish, earning them a spot in the UEFA Champions League.

Transfer to Arsenal

On July 29, 2024, Calafiori signed with Arsenal for a reported fee of £42 million. His debut season included a memorable goal against Manchester City, showcasing his long-range shooting talent.

International Success

After representing Italy at the U21 level, Calafiori debuted for the senior team in 2024. He played in the UEFA Euro 2024, becoming Italy’s second-youngest player at the tournament, contributing significantly to their group-stage success.

Playing Style and Recognition

A versatile defender, Calafiori excels as both a left-back and center-back, known for his anticipation, aerial prowess, and ball-carrying ability. Dubbed “The New Maldini,” he’s viewed as one of Italy’s brightest talents, named in UEFA’s “50 for the Future” list in 2021.

Unknown Facts about Riccardo Calafiori

1. Youth Development at AS Roma

   • Joined AS Roma’s youth system and signed his first contract in June 2018, marking his professional start.

2. Near-Career-Ending Knee Injury

   • Suffered a severe knee injury in October 2018, almost ending his career before it truly began.

3. Serie A Debut with AS Roma

   • Debuted in a 3–1 win over Juventus on August 1, 2020, securing his first appearance in Serie A.

4. First Professional Goal

   • Scored his first goal for Roma in a Europa League match against Young Boys on December 3, 2020.

     

5. Transition to Basel

   • Joined Basel in August 2022, where he signed a three-year contract and became a regular starter.

6. Memorable Conference League Performance

   • Scored a crucial goal in a 2–2 draw against Slovan Bratislava, aiding Basel’s progress to the semifinals.

7. Return to Serie A with Bologna

   • Moved to Bologna in August 2023, shifting from a left-back to a center-back role under Thiago Motta.

8. Braced for Success against Juventus

   • Scored twice in a 3–3 match with Juventus on May 20, 2024, marking his first Serie A goals.

9. Champion’s League Qualification with Bologna

   • Helped Bologna qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 1964–65.

10. Premier League Debut for Arsenal

    • Joined Arsenal in July 2024 for £42 million, debuting against Aston Villa on August 24.

11. First Goal for Arsenal

    • Scored in a 2–2 draw against Manchester City on September 22, 2024, from outside the box.

12. Italy U21 and Senior Debut

    • Debuted for Italy’s U21 team in September 2021 and received a senior call-up in May 2024.

13. Competitive Debut at UEFA Euro 2024

    • Made his competitive senior debut in a 2–1 win against Albania, becoming Italy’s second-youngest player in Euros.

14. Own Goal vs. Spain

    • Scored an own goal in Italy’s 1–0 loss to Spain during the Euro 2024 group stage.

15. Vital Assist Against Croatia

    • Assisted in a stoppage-time equalizer against Croatia, helping Italy advance to the Euro 2024 knockout stage.

16. Suspension in UEFA Euro 2024

    • Missed Italy’s match against Switzerland due to an accumulation of yellow cards, impacting the team’s defense.

17. Play Style Compared to Paolo Maldini

    • Known as “The New Maldini” for his positional similarity and playing style, reminiscent of the Italian legend.

18. Versatile Defensive Skills

    • Recognized for his adaptability, playing in both back-three and back-four formations with anticipation and strength.

19. Top Italian Talent Recognition

    • Featured in The Guardian’s “Next Generation” in 2019 and UEFA’s “50 for the Future” list in 2021.

      

20. Physical Stats and Style

    • Standing tall and athletic, his height aids in aerial battles, while his speed and technique allow effective long shots.

21. No Tattoos

    • Unlike many footballers, Calafiori is not known to have any tattoos, reflecting a focus on his professional image.

22. Estimated Net Worth

    • His net worth is reportedly growing, estimated at several million euros after high-profile transfers.

23. Controversy-Free Record

    • Calafiori has managed to maintain a clean reputation, focusing on skill development over media controversies.

24. Admired for Ball-Carrying Ability

    • Praised for his ability to carry the ball forward, initiating attacks from defense with excellent dribbling.

25. Jersey Number

    • Has worn various numbers through his career, most recently adopting a new number at Arsenal.

Riccardo Calafiori’s journey from AS Roma’s youth academy to becoming a prominent defender in Europe is a testament to his resilience and skill. His rapid rise and versatility make him an exciting talent in modern football, with a promising career ahead at Arsenal and the Italian national team.

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