Calafiori’s response to Capello’s tactical tip for Italy | OneFootball

Riccardo Calafiori has responded to a Fabio Capello tactical tip for the Italy national team as the ex-Milan boss argued the Arsenal defender should be tested in front of the defence, ‘like Marcel Desailly.’

Calafiori spoke to Sky Sport Italia last night after Arsenal’s 3-1 win over Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium.

The Italian defender was introduced as a substitute in the second half, but provided the assist for the Gunners’ second goal.

Calafiori’s assist for Arsenal’s second goal

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on September 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Capello had previously compared Calafiori to Sergio Ramos and insisted he saw a similarity between the pair.

“Yes, the only thing is that Sergio Ramos played on the right, he had great quality, pressed well and improved,” said the former Milan coach.

Calafiori smiled and jokingly replied: “Yeah, that’s the only difference…”

Capello would test Calafiori in front of the defence

MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 20: Fabio Capello attends the Sporting Mixed Zone ahead of Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Palacio De Cibeles on April 20, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)

Capello continued and gave a tactical tip to Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso: “I’d like to see him [Calafiori] in front of the defence with the national team. Like Desailly, but with more quality. I have this idea.

“I like to try everything, but go easy with comparisons,” responded the Arsenal defender, but Capello insisted: “If I tell you so, it’s because I see something…”

Once again, Calafiori replied with a smile: “No, surely, the Mister knows something [about football]…”

Calafiori has grabbed three assists and one goal in 14 appearances across all competitions with Arsenal this season.

He made his senior Italy debut in June 2024 under Luciano Spalletti and has 12 international appearances under his belt.