Riccardo Calafiori has developed into one of the most reliable players in the Arsenal squad, primarily operating as a left back at the Emirates Stadium. His consistency and adaptability have made him a valuable option for the team, even though his natural position differs from the role he currently occupies.
When Arsenal signed him, he had already built a strong reputation as a centre back, particularly noted for his composure and ability to carry the ball out from defence. However, opportunities in that position have been limited due to the established partnership between Gabriel and William Saliba.
Competition in Defence
At Arsenal, Gabriel and Saliba have formed a solid and dependable pairing, making it difficult for any player to break into the starting line-up as a centre back. As a result, Calafiori has largely been deployed at left back, where he has managed to establish himself ahead of Myles Lewis Skelly in the pecking order.
While the Gunners continue to trust their manager’s selections, Calafiori has taken the opportunities presented to him in central defence and performed impressively. His versatility and technical ability have ensured he remains an important figure within the squad, regardless of position.
Materazzi’s Verdict
The defender has now been tipped to excel in his preferred role, with Marco Materazzi suggesting he could form an outstanding partnership with Gabriel. He said via the Metro:
‘I think Riccardo Calafiori is one of the best Italian defenders right now.
‘He grew very fast when he was at Bologna. Now Arsenal must believe in him. The best way for Arsenal is for Calafiori to be allowed to play his best football.
‘For me, Calafiori is best at centre back. Arsenal should play Calafiori with Gabriel instead of William Saliba. He has a very good left foot.’
Materazzi’s comments underline the belief that Calafiori’s qualities may be best utilised in the centre of defence. However, it remains difficult to argue against the current pairing of Gabriel and Saliba, given their consistent performances.
Even so, Calafiori has shown that he can be highly effective when deployed at centre back, offering Arsenal a strong alternative should changes be required.
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What a stupid suggestion from someone who can,t be watching Arsenal regularly.Saliba and Gabriel are a proven, balanced pairing and Mosquera and Calafiori are very able deputies for them.I agree that Calafiori is more effective at left centre back than left back, and i have little doubt that he would dovetail well with Saliba.In fact, in terms of surging forward from LCB he could well be more effective than Gabriel who is superior in the air and defensively in general.
It’s usually dumb, slow thinkers who rush to call others stupid. Calafiori is a quicker thinker, has better reaction time and anticipation. Gabriel works very hard to make Saliba look good, but the latter still makes silly, elementary and costly mistakes. Calafiori masters every defensive position including midfield, and has a goal in him on top of everything else.
R. Madrid wants Saliba and we can cash in on him instead of rushing to sell Martinelli, whom we need.
Youre Stupid to make such a bullshit co.memt, Califori is not a better center back than Saliba or Gabriel they are the best defensive combo in the world by a mile , ive seen Califori struggle with quick wide players who can dribble and he would never be a le to stop Haaland.
No but with Gabriel injured perhaps someone will need to partner Saliba?
GB,
Gabriel was seen training today, as was Rice and Trossard. But no Saka.
The hype around Saliba has successfully obscured his erratic, slow thinking capacity that’s cost Arsenal a number of goals and has Gabriel working overtime to cover him and coach him in every single match.
There’s an incomprehensible complacency about Saliba that’s so immature, given the amount of protection he still needs from other defenders .
You clearly have a thing about Saliba MM which i,m afraid defies logic or perhaps Arteta and the French international Manager are as dumb as this 79 year old when it comes to recognising footballing talent!
Who on earth thought this one up? There’s never yet been a suggestion that Calafiori should even deputise for Saliba in the event of him being injured or suspended, let alone replace him on merit. Calafiori has deputised efficiently for Gabriel, while Mosquera has stepped in for Saliba, and that’s the way it should be, unless something really dramatic takes place, forcing Calafiori to play on the right-hand side. In fact, Timber should be ahead of him in this situation.