One of the positives from Arsenal’s 1–0 win over Newcastle was Riccardo Calafiori stepping in for William Saliba and delivering a composed performance.
When Arsenal invested £42 million to sign Jakub Kiwior from Bologna following a strong 2023–24 campaign and an impressive showing for Italy at UEFA Euro 2025 in Germany, expectations were high for what he could offer.
Unfortunately, injuries, setbacks, and the emergence of Myles Lewis-Skelly have hindered his ability to consistently showcase the talent he hinted at before arriving in North London.
Calafiori impresses with calm and control
Some Gooners have expressed doubts about Calafiori, but performances like his 45-minute cameo against Newcastle may have changed opinions.
Looking at Riccardo Calafiori’s touch map, as cited by Sofascore, it was nearly impossible to pinpoint his exact role. Yet, he was always in the right place to recover possession effectively.
On Sunday night, he epitomised the roaming defender style while exhibiting his phenomenal two-footed distribution. He also demonstrated what an elite box defender he can be.
He undoubtedly shifted momentum in Arsenal’s favour with a tactical switch, stepping into midfield from defence and overloading Newcastle’s engine room with his presence.
One thing is certain, Arsenal need him available at all times next season.
Echoes of Timber’s absence last season
Perhaps the excitement is premature, but the situation recalls last season, when most supporters did not fully grasp how much Jurrien Timber was missed following his ACL injury. Since Timber never had the opportunity to establish himself, his absence was not immediately felt.
Calafiori could well deliver the Timber 2024–25 renaissance, but only if he stays fit.
While most of his appearances have come at left-back, he is clearly capable in that role. However, there is a strong argument that he is better suited to central defence. His composure on the ball is outstanding, and as seen against Newcastle, he looks solid as a centre-back.
He and Jakub Kiwior must be given more opportunities in central defence. Arsenal cannot afford to over-rely on William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, as doing so risks exposing them to fatigue and injury.
Your thoughts appreciated Gooners..
Daniel O
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For me personally, I think that Calafiori is better in the Centre of defense. I’m not convinced by him at left back though.
That is the position he played in Italy.
Arsenal should look for a new left back to cover for L.Skelly and mantain the dupla of Kiwior and Calafiori for rotating the Central defenders.
We should have 2 players for position with hopefully similar qualities to cover for lengthy injuries. Rotation is the key. The squad should be of 25 players plus the academy contributions.
The main reason for our failures this year was the bad planning incurred by Arteta and Edu.
Andrea Berta I thing will help to better this important matter.
In truth we cannot afford to over rely on anyone anymore. Injuries and suspension can strike anyone any time. Arteta must learn to rotate without mercy. No one is indispensable.
There are two reasons I would like to Calafiori at CB. Injures and Potential. Less likely to get injured at CB. A little too slow for LB imo. This one decision has two knock on effects. We should cash in on Kiwior and replace him with Hato. He is a complete fullback with world class potential.
As much as being able to play multiple positions is a good trait, Arteta should also try to stick players to certain positions and play them consistently in their best natural position.
The difference on performance of Calafiori as LB and LCB is phenomenal. He’s definitely a natural LCB same as Big Gabby and Kiwior. Going forward I’d love him to rotate with Big Gabby at LCB. That way injury to both potentially is limited.
MLSkelly is a natural midfielder playing LB. Same as Zinchenko . Though MLS, Cala & Kiwior have filled in at LB “satisfactorily” I think Arteta needs to get a natural LB thst can play the role the way he wants.
Funny enough the only natural LB Tierney is being let go.
Partey at RB , Kai as striker are other cases that have contributed to our trophylesness over the past 2 seasons
only natural LB Tierney is being let go.
The best thi
Spot on AyD.
Where possible play round pegs in round holes, it’s that simple.
We seem to have forgotten about Tomiyasu.
Yeah, well he IS easily forgotten. I’ve recently read that he won’t be back till around October (if then).