Italian media praise Riccardo Calafiori after standout performance in Italy’s victory over France | OneFootball

Arsenal’s new signing Riccardo Calafiori has received glowing praise from the Italian media following his impressive performance in Italy’s 3-1 victory over France in the UEFA Nations League.

Despite being forced off in the 71st minute after suffering a calf injury, Calafiori’s contribution was widely recognised as one of the best on the pitch showing why he was one of the most in-demand players this summer.

PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 06: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in action during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A2 match between France and Italy at Parc des Princes stadium on September 06, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted Calafiori as “among the best in Paris,” noting his ability to seamlessly integrate into the midfield while maintaining his defensive duties as a left-sided centre back.

The outlet praised the defender for his adaptability, describing him as a “natural interpreter” of Italy’s rotating midfield system. His performance as part of the team was likened to Italy’s renowned midfield dynamics under Cesare Prandelli, which featured players like Andrea Pirlo and Daniele De Rossi.

The media outlet specifically noted that Calafiori’s ability to avoid being “caged in a single role” was crucial to Italy’s success in breaking down the French defence. His versatility allowed him to push forward, often leaving his defensive line, while his teammates covered the space left behind.

La Gazzetta called his contribution a “perfect snapshot of that dynamic midfield,” emphasising how he could seamlessly transition from defence to attack, keeping France on the back foot throughout the game.

Calafiori’s chemistry with midfielder Samuele Ricci was also praised, with the duo’s interchanging roles allowing Calafiori to exploit space in the French defence. “What Calafiori does with naturalness and apparent simplicity” was a key part of Italy’s success, La Gazzetta noted, as the Torino midfielder’s positioning gave Calafiori the freedom to venture forward and create chances.

Italy’s defender #05 Riccardo Calafiori lies on the football pitch during the UEFA Nations League Group A2 football match between France and Italy at the Parc des Princes in Paris on September 6, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

However, Calafiori’s night was cut short when he was involved in an accidental collision with French winger Ousmane Dembele.

The 22-year-old was substituted after trying to run off the injury, sparking concerns about a potential calf or ankle issue.

Italy manager Luciano Spalletti addressed the injury after the match, saying: “Calafiori needs to be evaluated, but with our good doctors, there is a chance he can recover.”

Initial reports indicate the injury is not as severe as first feared, and Calafiori is expected to be fit for Arsenal’s crucial North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur next weekend if not for Italy’s next match on Monday night.

His absence would have been a significant blow for Mikel Arteta’s side, given the current injury situation in the squad.

Calafiori’s performance, despite the injury, has strengthened his reputation as a key player for both club and country. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of play will be crucial for Arsenal as they head into a packed fixture schedule.