Scout Report: Riccardo Caliafiori
Riccardo Caliafiori was one of Italy’s only shining lights at this years’ Euro’s, after a stellar year at Bologna, he looks to be on the move this summer. Courted by those at the top of European football, it looks as though Arsenal have beaten the rest to the Italian defender’s signature.
Born and raised in Rome, he became a product of the Roma’s youth system. After signing his first professional contract in 2018, Caliafiori would suffer a near career ending knee injury. Despite the doubts, the Italian would return to make his senior debut in 2020, with a 3-1 away win against Juventus.
As the coaches at Roma came and went, opportunities were limited, and following a loan to Genoa, Caliafiori moved on to Switzerland and Basel. It was here the defender really found his feet, being an ever-present in the Basel side for a season and a half. In August of 2023, the 22-year-old would return to Italy, with Thiago Motta’s Bologna.
In Bologna’s first Champions League qualifying season since 1964-65, in 2023-24, Caliafiori would play 30 Serie A games, averaging 1.6 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per 90, whilst contributing two goals and five assists.
Caliafiori’s superb year would earn him his first senior International call up, making the Luciano Spalletti’s squad at Euro 2024. The defender would make his competitive debut in the first group game against Albania, becoming the second youngest Italian to play in a Euro game, behind only Paolo Maldini. Despite Italy departing the tournament in the knockout rounds, Caliafiori’s performance within the competition garnered him top-level interest and could have been key to him getting his potential move to the Premier League.
Caliafiori began his career playing on the left side of defence, before transitioning centrally under Motta, at Bologna. Technically, he can play anywhere across a back line, be that as a three or four. The defender loves to carry the ball forward and is known for dribbling the ball into the oppositions half to open play up. More than capable of making an array of passing, his technical abilities are second to none. His quality alongside his pace, mean he can keep up with just about any player. Thanks to his attributes and performances, Caliafiori is currently regarded as one of the best prospects in Italian football.
A very Mikel Arteta signing, with his versatility making him a strong advocate to play in Arsenal’s defensive system, the Gunners would be getting one of the talents of the summer should they get this deal over the line.
