ARSENAL’S new £42million defender Riccardo Calafiori took just a few words to win over fans.
Emirates’ boss Mikel Arteta unveiled the Italian Euro 2024 star to his Gunners‘ team-mates at a Monday meeting.
Arsenal posted a clip of Arteta introducing the club’s objectives for the coming week.
And the Spaniard opened up by welcoming the ex-Bologna hero.
Calafiori drew rousing applause from the Gunners’ players.
And when Arteta asked if he wanted to say a few words, viewers loved the five-cap ace being heard to say: “Is it real?”
The 22-year-old then gave a bashful smile as he stood up to complete his brief but brilliantly-received response.
Calafiori added: “Of course I’m really happy to be here. I waited a lot.
“I hope we are going to do something great this year.
“Just this. Thank you.”
It was enough for one viewer to say: “Proper Gooner right there.”
Another wrote: “We have a new family member.”
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And a third fan responded: “Welcome to the mighty Arsenal, mini Maldini” – a reference to all-time great Azzurri defender Paolo Maldini.
Calafiori has signed a five-year contract at the Emirates following a transfer saga that dragged on following the Euros.
Arteta is a big fan of the former Basel star’s versatility, as he can play at left-back as well as in central defence.
The manager hailed him as a “great signing” – adding: “Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.”
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