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Riccardo Calafiori: From Devastating Injury to Premier League Star

Riccardo Calafiori’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and defying the odds. The 22-year-old Italian defender, now at Arsenal, carries a permanent reminder of his journey inked on his arm: “never give up.” This personal mantra is a testament to the remarkable resilience he has shown, following a career-threatening injury at just 16 years old.

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BBC Sport recently shared the tale of how Calafiori’s career took off despite almost being derailed before it began. His story is a heartwarming reminder of the highs and lows that come with professional football. It also reflects his determination to overcome challenges and continue chasing his dreams. In this blog, we take a closer look at his journey to the Premier League and the milestones that have shaped him into the player Arsenal fans are excited to see today.

Overcoming a Major Setback: Calafiori’s Life-Altering Injury

At the tender age of 16, Calafiori faced a crisis that would have crushed the spirit of most young footballers. Playing in a UEFA Youth League match for AS Roma, he suffered a serious knee injury that ruptured all the ligaments in his knee. The injury was so severe that he feared he might never walk properly again, let alone pursue his footballing dreams.

“This was my first tattoo and it was for this reason,” Calafiori told BBC Sport, reflecting on his tattoo that reads “never give up.” This phrase took on profound significance after his injury, as he questioned whether he could ever play football again.

The road to recovery was long and gruelling, but it ultimately shaped him into a more resilient and determined player. As he recalls, “You appreciate more small things and you grow up as a man. It helped me become a better player.” Despite the physical and mental challenges that followed the injury, Calafiori returned to the pitch with a renewed sense of fearlessness, diving into tackles and duels without hesitation.

Mentorship and Guidance from a Legend

During his recovery, Calafiori was fortunate to receive invaluable support from a true football legend, Daniele De Rossi. The Roma and Italy icon frequently visited the young defender in hospital and even drove him to physio sessions. For Calafiori, De Rossi wasn’t just an idol—he became a close friend and mentor, someone whose advice he continues to seek during critical career decisions.

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De Rossi played a pivotal role in Calafiori’s move to Arsenal, advising him that it would be one of the best opportunities to grow as a player. “He is one of my friends, and I always ask him about my biggest decisions. He always gives me good advice,” Calafiori shared. The bond between the two has remained strong, and De Rossi’s influence has undoubtedly helped shape the Italian’s career trajectory.

Growth, Setbacks, and a New Beginning at Arsenal

After his long recovery, Calafiori’s career began to take off when he made his full debut for Roma in 2020. His early career included a spell on loan at Genoa, followed by a move to Swiss side Basel in 2022. Reflecting on his time abroad, Calafiori said, “It was the best choice I ever made.” Living alone for the first time in a foreign country, he learned to navigate both life and football on his own, an experience that helped him mature as a player and as a person.

After spending a season at Basel, Calafiori returned to Italy with Bologna, determined to prove himself in Serie A. His time at Bologna proved transformative, with then-coach Thiago Motta shifting him from his usual position at left-back to central defence. This tactical change led to what Calafiori describes as “the best season” of his career, helping Bologna secure a return to the Champions League for the first time in 60 years.

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Despite finding success in Serie A, Calafiori was soon drawn to the Premier League. A seemingly innocuous tourist trip to London in January sparked his interest in Arsenal. He watched the Gunners play Crystal Palace in a 5-0 victory and couldn’t have imagined at the time that just months later, he would be donning the famous red and white shirt of Arsenal.

A Dream Come True at Arsenal

By May, Arsenal’s interest in Calafiori became serious. A conversation with manager Mikel Arteta sealed the deal. “He first wrote to me and then said, ‘can I call you?’ It was so humble and so easy on the phone,” Calafiori recalled. Arteta explained how the club viewed Calafiori and where he could improve, though Calafiori admitted, “He tried to convince me, but I was already convinced. Not just because it is Arsenal, but because it is Mikel.”

Photo: IMAGO

The influence of Jorginho, another Italian playing at Arsenal, further encouraged Calafiori to make the move. After making his full debut against Manchester City and scoring a spectacular goal, Calafiori’s Arsenal journey began on the perfect note.

Adapting to Life in England: Language, Food, and Culture

Adapting to a new country comes with its own challenges, but Calafiori has embraced the experience wholeheartedly. He has been learning English through Netflix and UK drill music, and despite having only recently moved to London, he’s already well-versed in local slang. His use of phrases like “top bins” shows his willingness to integrate into the culture.

Additionally, he’s thrown himself into the local cuisine, albeit with a few reservations. “Fish and chips I have tried—once per month maybe you can do this, but it isn’t healthy,” he joked. Despite the reputation of British food, Calafiori has been pleasantly surprised, admitting, “I expected worse from the food in England, it is not so bad.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s a lot to get excited about with Riccardo Calafiori. His arrival signals not just a new defensive option, but a player with the grit and determination that Arsenal has sometimes lacked in recent years. This is a young man who has been to the brink and back. He’s not afraid of challenges, and his journey from overcoming injury to thriving in the Premier League shows he has the mentality to succeed at the highest level.

What’s also encouraging is his connection with Arteta, who clearly values him as an important part of the team. Arsenal’s defence has been solid, but adding a player like Calafiori, with his versatility to play both left-back and centre-back, gives Arteta the tactical flexibility he loves. The fact that Calafiori has already made an impact, scoring on his debut, is a great sign of what’s to come.

The resilience and maturity he’s developed after his early setbacks will serve him well in the physical demands of the Premier League. Arsenal fans have every reason to believe that Calafiori can be a cornerstone of the team’s defence for years to come, especially under Arteta’s guidance. His future looks bright, and Gooners everywhere should be buzzing with excitement at what’s ahead for this promising Italian defender.