Mikel Arteta has backed new signing Riccardo Calafiori to help Arsenal win trophies after the defender completed his move to the Gunners.
The 22-year-old joins the club on a long-term contract from Bologna, where he helped the Italian side to achieve Champions League qualification last season.
“He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence,” Arteta said.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
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Riccardo Calafiori heads out for his first @Arsenal training session 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/Q2P8R4zKFN
Calafiori will wear the number 33 shirt and has travelled to the US to join up with his new teammates in Philadelphia on the club’s pre-season tour.
Arsenal’s sporting director Edu said: “It has been a great team effort in completing this transfer and we welcome Riccardo to the family.
“We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level. He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.
“Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer.
“Mikel and our coaches are excited to start working with Riccardo, and we all look forward to seeing him in our shirt.”
