"He’s a great player who has a great future" - Arsenal star heaps praise on new signing Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has heaped praise on summer-signing Riccardo Calafiori. Raya has completed a permanent transfer to the Emirates after spending the 2023-24 season on loan.

The Gunners have further bolstered their ranks by signing Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million. Calafiori showed his quality for the Serie A side last season, helping them qualify for the UEFA Champions League. His performances for Italy at Euro 2024 also caught eyeballs.

Raya has now lauded his new teammate, speaking highly of the defender's character and other traits. The Spaniard told Sky Sports:

"First of all, he's a great guy. He's young, only 22, and he's hungry. In terms of football, he's a great player who has a great future. He can play left-back, he can play left centre-back. So, the first impression has been really, really good."

Calafiori, apart from his defensive qualities, has also impressed with his passing range. He racked up an impressive five assists for Bologna last season and also managed an assist at Euro 2024.

The Italian comes with a lot of hype and is only 22. Raya has also commented about Calafiori's determination, saying:

"He is very, very strong. He goes for the tackles. He just goes for it. He would put his head in a washing machine, if you know what I am saying. But the main thing is that he's a great guy as well as a great player."

Arsenal boasts William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior, and more defenders in their ranks. Calafiori's arrival further adds steel to the team's backline.

Riccardo Calafiori tipped to change Arsenal's trophy fortune

Arsenal came agonizingly close to becoming Premier League champions in the last two seasons. They finished second behind Manchester City on both occasions.

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman reckons Calafiori could help the Gunners win silverware. The Italian defender could turn out to be the final piece of the puzzle, as per Osman. He said (via The Boot Room):

"Most exciting signing so far? Riccardo Calafiori - not one to get you out of your seat but could bring a title."

Gunners across the globe would hope that Calafiori could bring an end to the team and help the team finally win the Premier League under Mikel Arteta.